Mamelodi Sundowns F.C. Today officially launched their Mamelodi Sundowns Soccer Schools initiative – a new generation of young players’ pathway that aims to coach in excess of 6,000 children (aged 4-15) in South Africa.
At the event in Midrand, the initiative was introduced by Chairman Tlhopie Motsepe, Academy Head Paulo Cardoso and representatives from partner grass roots development organization Global Soccer Schools International (GSSI). It marks an important step towards bringing the pathway from the initial stages of youth football in the professional framework.
I am very pleased to announce the launching of Mamelodi Sundowns Soccer Schools which will serve to enhance our offering to developing young footballers. I have always felt we are excellent with youngsters from the age of 11 onward coming through the academy, however we had always felt we were lacking when it came to training players from the ages of four through eleven, – Motsepe
Motsepe also mentioned that while the club aims to develop the next generation of professional football players, every child involved would have the chance to build a lifelong association with the sport.
Youth football is something we take very seriously and we don’t only want to bring in the next star that will wear the Brazilians jersey one day, but every single kid who comes through these doors should leave with a lifelong love of this game, along with friends and positive relationships.
Children of all skill levels will be coached, from the very basics of the game through to a more advanced level, while clear pathways into the Sundowns Youth Academy structure are in place for those most talented individuals who progress through the program. The GSSI founders have said they combine their expert grassroots coaching with Sundowns’ premier football structure.
The program will run across South Africa and will also be extended to Manchester in the United Kingdom. Further engagements and expansion programs are expected to be conducted over the next few months as the scheme is implemented.
