Grassroots programme aims to help develop young footballers further |20 August 2016

The development of young footballers is a major part of the Seychelles Football Federation’s plans and getting children involved in the sport at an early age is always crucial in order to produce the best footballers for the future.

A grassroots programme will take place as of this coming Tuesday when youngsters will be able to enjoy the beautiful game and learn the basic skills needed to play football.

SFF education officer Gavin Jeanne said the programme is part of an International Football Federation (Fifa) grassroots instructors’ course being followed by 25 instructors who will work with the children.

“As the children as in their school holidays, we decided to have this programme so that parents can leave their children with us in the morning, where aside from learning the basics of football and exercising, they will also get refreshments and lunch,” said Mr Jeanne.

The programme will run from 10am to 4pm from Tuesday to Friday. On Friday there will be football festival, including a tournament for the children.

Mr Jeanne added: “The programme is for children aged 12 or younger, meaning that even younger children can attend. But if we get children aged around 5 or 6, we would like to encourage their parents to bring along a bigger brother or sister with them if possible, as an extra precaution.”

The programme is open to both boys and girls and Mr Jeanne added that children with disabilities are also welcomed.

“At the SFF we are already looking into the possibility of making this an annual programme, although transportation is a big issue and must be resolved before we can make it a reality,” he added.

A bus will leave the Victoria bus terminal at 9am every day with an SFF representative present to guide those taking part.

For additional information and to confirm their children’s involvement, parents can contact Mr Jeanne on telephone number 4601160.

The key concept of grassroots is to bring together as many people as possible through football. The programme advocates exchanges and sharing human values and, of course, promotes the pleasure of practicing the marvellous sport of football.

S. N.