Atlantic LNG will team up with the Real Madrid Foundation for the benefit of young footballers in Trinidad and Tobago.
During the launch of the 2011 Atlantic LNG National Primary Schools Football League, at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, in Port of Spain, on Wednesday, brand manager Derek Daniel said his company is working on a deal that will benefit 25 boys and 25 girls.
The sponsors of the Primary Schools League had a similar special development camp last year following the primary schools football season, involving Manchester United, in conjunction with the T&T Olympic Committee (TTOC). Daniel said Atlantic is trying to do even more in 2011.
"We know that to win and be the best footballing nation in the world is what every country wants. The secret of (Spain's World Cup 2010) success is their focus on young footballers."
Daniel referred to this generation of youngsters as the "e-generation" —the generation that will "benefit from the use of the country's oil and gas resources". He encouraged them to apply the lessons of teamwork they learn.
Minister in the Ministry of Education, Clifton De Coteau, himself a former footballer, told the boys and girls that sport mixed with academics is a good formula for all-round development.
De Coteau thanked the parents, teachers and other role models who have facilitated the youngsters' participation in the League.
"What you have done is to set these children on a road of life that will see them achieving more than you would have dreamed for them. People don't really appreciate these surrogate parents".
De Coteau also commended Atlantic LNG for its vision. And League chairman Vincent Graham was grateful to the company as well.
"We have been saying time and time again that our football must not be seen as militating against academic performance. From this cadre of players we will get our Soca Warriors or Princesses later on."
Graham said the League has faced a number of challenges, with parents and teachers concerned that playing football will affect students' SEA grades.
But he said football can be just as beneficial to their young lives, even if they do not pursue the sport at a professional level.
On Wednesday, the draw for the national competition was made. The winners of each of the eight educational districts will meet the runners-up from other districts next month.
National Primary Schools League draw
Boys
East St George I vs North Eastern II
North Eastern I vs Caroni II
Victoria I vs St Patrick II
Tobago I vs South Eastern II
Port of Spain I vs East St George II
Caroni I vs Tobago II
South Eastern I vs Port of Spain II
St Patrick I vs Victoria II
Girls
Victoria I vs South Eastern II
North Eastern I vs Tobago II
East St George I vs Port of Spain II
St Patrick I vs North Eastern II
Port of Spain I vs Caroni II
South Eastern I vs East St George II
Caroni I vs St Patrick II
Tobago I vs Victoria II