Dubai Club for People of Determination trainee Jamal Al Bedwawi, representing Dubai Police General Command, was thrilled to reach the semi-finals of the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament, and said that defence and teamwork will be the key to lift the winning trophy at the ongoing event.

Bedwawi, who is also a key member of the UAE national team, is a vital member of the team playing in playmaker position.

“The focus will be on our defence. We have some strong players in the team and if we work together towards the goal, we will succeed. Our goal is to win the gold,” Bedwawi said ahead of his semi-final game against Roads and Transport Authority.

The promising player, who started his sports career as a football player in Hatta Club from 2001-2012, also highlighted that this year’s NAS tournament had been the best even playing field with entities field balanced teams.

“Every year, the tournament has grown in terms of competition, players; and the popularity among fans. The interest of government entities has also increased and it’s a good sign for the sport in UAE and beyond. Competition wise, this year has been the best with level-playing teams. I hope I can help my team take the trophy on Sunday,” added Badwawi, who had represented Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) for the last three years.

Meanwhile, Badwawi’s team-mate Ashraf Abuzed, who has the maximum number of goals in the event sitting proudly at 19 goals, was aiming for a gold medal for his team.

“I am very proud to score so many goals for Dubai Police team. I hope my effort can help my team take the gold medal,” said the Egyptian Abuzed, who has also played for Egypt national team in the past.

Abuzed, who has a gold medal with Khorfakkan team, has been playing the NAS tournament for eight long years while he has been playing wheelchair basketball for 25 long years. He believes he could use his experience in guiding his team to success. “I enjoy playing this event; there are players with different style of game and it’s more fun.”

In the semi-finals to be played at the Dubai Club for People of Determination grounds, Dubai Police General Command team, the leader of the first group, will meet the Roads and Transport Authority team, the runner-up of the second group, while Dubai Ambulance, the leader of the second group, will meet the Al Bustan Center and Residence, the runner-up of first group.

The final will be held on Sunday in the hall of Nad Al Sheba Complex, while the two losers of the semi-finals will meet for the third place – the third-place play-off will be held Saturday.