My friend’s father, Subait Anbar, is one of the first founders of
Al-Ain club as well as one of the first players in the history of the club.
Subait, who is aged 54, joined the young division team in 1970 and then moved
to play with the first team three year later. Subait, the defender, retired in
1990.
When he was asked about the difference between football now and before, he said that the UAE has witnessed all the phases of sports development. This is attributed to the fact that sports facilities were few. He said that he himself and his colleagues played on sand, artificial grass and finally on real grass. He stressed how difficult sports were in his day. However, now the UAE has become very developed in all sports in general and in football in particular. One example is Al-Ain club that won the third place in the Asian Cup that was held in Australia recently.
Subait joined Al-Ain when he was 16 years old. He said that the
establishment of the club was under the instructions and directions of the late
Sheikh Zayed, may his soul rest in peace, as he was the spiritual father of the
club. Now, the design of the club resembles Barcelona’s. The main support came
from Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed (the Honorary member of the Board). Other
supporters include Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak (Chief of the Board), Sheikh
Mohammad bin Zayed, Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed and Sheikh Hazza’ bin Zayed who
gave the club the valuable stadium (Hazza’ bin Zayed Stadium).
Subait accomplished many achievements with the club. He won the
league 3 times before football was broadcasted. On this occasion, Subait was
happy to mention people that he was honored to play and work with such as Mani’
Ajlan, Ahmad Al-Rashidi, Fayez Subait, Ali Al-Junaibi, Jasim Al-Dhaheri and so
many others.
His most valuable goal was the goal that he scored against Al-Ahli,
the one because of which Al-Ain beat Al-Ahli 2-1. The best match he played was
against Sharjah club when Al-Ain won the match 2-1, too. Subait explained that
he retired in 1990 because he was too old to play football then.
How has professionalism enhanced the Emirati football? Subait
replied to this question saying that the UAE national team has become stronger
and became able to compete against strong teams. This has also added value to
the league itself. The competition in the league has become more interesting to
watch. Football in the UAE now is developing and the UAE football league is one
of the strongest Arab leagues because of this. It is also worth mentioning that
the UAE national team participated in the football World Cup.
As he was closing, Subait gave some advice to young athletes. He
advised them not to be full of themselves or boast. Instead, real sportsmen
have to do their tasks and be loyal in all kinds of sports. He also advised
racers not to speed on roads. In general, he recommended that sportsmen should
follow a healthy life style that is not deviant from the right track.
