BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - THREE footballers from the twin-island Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis currently taking part in the Digicel Football Kickstart Academy are expressing their delight to be able to work with professional coaches from Chelsea Football Club.
The footballers, Tahir Hanley, Raheem Francis and Jamar Smith, were selected by legendary English footballer John Barnes following the St. Kitts leg of the Kick Start Clinic.
Speaking to officials at the academy, Francis articulated his joy to experience professional football life.
"For me, I have been given a taste of professional football life as it's my goal to become a professional footballer. I will take back new things, especially in warm-up and technical aspects."
Hanley craves for the Academy to have an extended period of training, stating, “Working with my peers and the Chelsea coaches, I've been learning quite a lot. This would help me to continue building my overall game.”
Smith has also indicated how beneficial the training has so far been for him.
"It is going great! I have been able to learn a lot not only from the Chelsea Football Club coaches, but also from the coaches and players around the region. “
He added that having gained this experience, he is going to use it to develop his game as a player.
Thirty-two aspiring young footballers will be trained by coaches from European and FA Cup Champions, Chelsea Football Club.
The Digicel Academy marks the culmination of the 2012 Digicel Kick Start Clinics and sees the talent of top footballers from around the Caribbean come together for the opportunity of a lifetime, by spending one week training in the beautiful game under Chelsea coaches.
The Academy, which started on Monday (Oct. 29) and concludes on Saturday (Nov. 3), is being held in Barbados.
