The West Riding County FA supported Girlington-based Fairbank United by providing them with the opportunity to allow Muslims to play football over the holy month of Ramadan.
The creation of the Ramadan Midnight League, which took place over the past three weeks on Friday nights, allowed players to observe their fast during daylight hours, complete evening prayers and get some rest, before being able to participate in the game they love at a time when most people are tucked up in bed
Shazad Bashir, chairman of Fairbank United, said: "When the original idea was proposed last year by Tom Dent of the West Riding County FA, I genuinely thought he was mad.
“But after consultation with some of the younger lads they convinced us to give it a go.
"Another important aspect of our religion is giving to charity, so we decided this year to use the event to raise money for those who have been displaced by the devastating earthquake in Syria and Turkey.”
The tournament consisted of over 45 players, who represented the club from the past and present, competing for the coveted Ramadan Midnight League trophy which was won by "BDRU 2014".
BDRU team captain Kashif Khan was delighted with the victory, saying: "I last represented the club when I was 11, and don't really play football much, so it was a great opportunity to catch up with my old team mates.
“It was also brilliant seeing the whole Fairbank family come together.
“Speedball (the venue for the tournament in BD8) was packed with people watching at one in the morning.”
Grateful club captain Billal Saleem said: "On behalf of the club, we would like to thank the sponsors, players, spectators who watched us live and via our social media channels who contributed to us raising £3,345 for a noble cause.”
Despite the tournament being finished, there is still a chance to donate via this link before tomorrow (Saturday, April 22).
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