Soca Warriors Online Discussion Forum
Sports => Football => Topic started by: JW on April 08, 2008, 09:44:03 PM
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Leston Paul at Sunderland?
I see that Leston Paul is the T&T representative in the 8 players that are over training with Sunderland, as part of the Digicel Kick Start clinics thing.
All I can find is that he is a midfielder... anyone able to fill in the blanks?
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Some information here
http://www.socawarriors.net/forum/index.php?topic=20974.msg220905#msg220905
http://www.socawarriors.net/forum/index.php?topic=34159.msg399149#msg399149
If you go to socawarriors.net home page and look along the left side of the screen go to the 3rd category "Other Tours" and click U-20 or U-17/U1-16. Go to U-20/U-17 news and there are several articles concerning Paul and some other T&T youth players.
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Cheers... seems like a decent kid.
Will be interesting to see they all get on in Sunderland. By all accounts, the weather has not been too kind, so far...
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Nice tidy player with a deadly left foot. His workrate needs improving and he will find that out real quick in a pro environment. IMHO he has all the tools to make it if he is hungry enough
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The eight Digicel U-20 footballers arrive at Sunderland AFC.
on their journey of champions.
The eight boys selected by Digicel Clinics' Head Coach, John Barnes, arrive in England for a week's training at Sunderland AFC's Academy of Light.
Sunderland, England: The Digicel Kick Start Clinic's Journey of Champions began on Saturday April 5 when the eight Caribbean boys, selected by International footballer John Barnes, travelled from Jamaica to the UK to train at Sunderland AFC's Academy of Light. The eight Digicel footballers were greeted by unseasonable snow as they landed at Gatwick in London on Sunday April 6. The boys then headed to Sunderland by train to begin training at the Academy on Monday April 7.
On Day one Andrew Murray (Guyana), Joseph Guemsley & Renaud Brisley (Haiti), Gerard Williams & Devaugn Elliot (St. Kitts), Emilio Limon (Suriname), Leston Paul (Trinidad) and Akeem Brown (Jamaica) were greeted by Ged McNamee, Sunderland AFC Academy Director. Each Digicel player received Umbro training kits, given the club rules and regulations and underwent fitness training and tests. Due to the snow, the boys were unable to train outside and were taken to an indoor pitch to train with the Sunderland reserve team.
On Day two, the snow had melted and the boys were able to train on an outside pitch. Due to the boys' ages and size, the Digicel players were separated: three boys (Brisley, Williams and Limon) went to train with the reserve and the remaining five trained with the youth team. Ged McNamee explains the separation: "We think it best for the boys to be equally matched in order for them to get the most out of training and this also allows the coaches to assess the players against the recruitment criteria and to observe their potential to determine whether the players could progress further."
At the end of training on Day two, the Digicel footballers were taken on a tour of the Sunderland AFC's Stadium of Light. From immaculate changing rooms to the well equipped press room to walking through the player's tunnel, the boys were shown what it would be like to play for a premier league club.
With the boys' excitement in full gear, the Digicel footballers now enter into Day three of training when Sunderland Club manager Roy Keane will observe the Caribbean talent.
The Digicel Kick Start Clinic's Journey of Champions will end on Saturday April 12 when the players will attend the Sunderland vs. Manchester City match where they will have the opportunity to meet all the players and Sunderland AFC's Chairman, Niall Quinn. The Digicel Kick Start footballers will return to Jamaica on Monday April 14.
Source: Digicelfootball.Com
(http://www.digicelfootball.com/medias/Digicelplayersexperience.jpg)
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Update in today's Northern Echo (http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/news/display.var.2192357.0.sunderland_give_rising_caribbean_stars_a_taste_for_big_time.php):
ROY KEANE has invited eight promising Caribbean footballers into Sunderland's dressing room ahead of today's Premier League visit of Manchester City after impressing during five days training.
Joseph Guemsley, Leston Paul, Gerard Williams, Emilio Limon, Renaud Brisley, Akeem Brown, Andrew Murray and Devaughn Elliott have all been at the Black Cats' Academy of Light this week.
The teenagers were all recommended to Sunderland by the head of Digicel Kick Start Football Clinics, former Liverpool and England winger John Barnes, and have been put through their paces by reserve team coach Neil Bailey on Wearside.
Paul, captain of Trinidad & Tobago Under-17s, is known to have impressed, and Keane also suggested yesterday that a couple could be heading back to the North-East in the near future.
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Upon reflection, it's good to witness the Haitian and Surinamese players being brought into the ambit of English ball. This must present a fairly unique perspective for them.
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Digicel Teams up with English Premier Clubs and Football Legend John Barnes for Youth Football for Second Year Running.
by: Digicel (press release).
Liverpool Football Club and Sunderland Athletic Football Club on board with Digicel in youth talent search across Caribbean and Central America
Kingston, Jamaica: Digicel, the largest mobile operator in the Caribbean and new entrant to the Central American market, today launched its youth football development programme, the “Digicel Kick Start Clinics”, for the second year running.
A huge hit across the region last year, the Digicel Kick Start Clinics give young footballers the chance to be trained by John Barnes, one of the world’s most famous players, a former England and Liverpool star and current coach of Jamaica’s national team, the Reggae Boyz - as well as the chance to realise their dreams and hope to impress English Premier League coaches and become professional footballers.
This year’s Digicel Kickstart Clinics will be even Bigger and Better with the addition of Central America to the programme. The eight best Under 16 players from across the Caribbean region will be given the chance to train for a week with Sunderland AFC in September – while the four best Central American Under 16s talents will train with Liverpool FC in October for a week.
The Digicel Kickstart Clinics will take place throughout May and June in six countries across the Caribbean – Jamaica, Barbados, Suriname, Haiti, Trinidad and St. Kitts - before moving on, for the first time, to Central America where Digicel youth clinics will take place in Panama, Costa Rica, Honduras and El Salvador throughout August.
Speaking at the press conference and 5 a side football match launch in Kingston, Jamaica, the Digicel Kick Start Clinics Head Coach, John Barnes said, “Last year’s Digicel Kick Start Clinics were an inspiring experience. In each and every one of the eight countries we visited, we identified really talented, enthusiastic and dedicated young players.
He continued; “The eight players who won the right to go and train with Sunderland last year came back with invaluable lessons and experiences – evident in their game today - under their belts. There’s so much raw enthusiasm and talent out there, I’m really looking forward to getting out there and getting to work.”
Digicel Group Marketing Director, Kieran Foley, commented, “This year, we’re going Bigger and Better with the introduction of the Digicel Kick Start Clinics to four countries in Central America – as well as holding them in six countries across the Caribbean. And we’re delighted to be teaming up with Sunderland again and that Liverpool Football Club has joined in and realized the credibility of the development programmes we have in place across the Caribbean and Central America.”
The Digicel Kick Start Clinics, are made possible by the full support of President Jack Warner of the Caribbean Football Union, whose vision has now propelled the clinics further afield into Central America.
Commenting on the initiative, President Jack Warner said; “This is another great example of Digicel’s commitment to the support and development of football at all levels of the game. The chance to be trained by a world-class footballer like John Barnes is something these young players would normally only be able to dream of – with the Digicel Kick Start Clinics, Digicel is making dreams a reality.”
Full details of the Digicel Kick Start Clinics will be announced locally over the coming weeks and will include details on how local clubs and school teams have the opportunity to be part of these once in a lifetime football development clinics.
For more information, visit www.digicelfootball.com
(http://www.bviplatinum.com/images/articleimg/7505a.jpg)
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Is ah opportunity so ah glad by why de ass caribbean youth get SAFC while Central/ Latin America get LFC?!
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It would be nice to know what happened to the youths who got the opportunity last year.
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The energetic and hard working Barnes also shared some thoughts on his expectations for the final three legs of the Digicel Kick Start Clinics which take place in Haiti on June 10th and 11th, Trinidad and Tobago on June 14th and 15th, with the final clinic taking place in St. Kitts & Nevis on June 18th and 19th.
http://www.bviplatinum.com/news.php?section=article&source=1242605631
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Eight talented players from Digicel Kick Start Clinics selected to train at Sunderland AFC.
digicelfootball.com.
John Barnes admits it was tough to select from such a vast pool of talent
Basseterre, St. Kitts: The 2nd Digicel Kick Start Clinics in the Caribbean drew to a close in St. Kitts this evening, when John Barnes unveiled the eight young Caribbean footballers who will travel to Sunderland AFC in September to spend one week training at Sunderland’s Academy of Light.
Diquan Adamson from Barbados, Esso Amichy from Haiti, Omar Holness and Paul Wilson from Jamaica, Kieron Phillip from St. Kitts, Ruiz Dillon Fromoredio and Bruce Julianto Diporedjo from Suriname and Ryan Frederick from Trinidad were the eight most talented footballers that participated in the Digicel Kick Start Clinics, which took place in six Caribbean countries over the last two months.
Commenting on his selection, John Barnes said: “I’ve always said that the Caribbean has an undiscovered pool of football talent, and again this year I’ve seen some great potential in these Under 16 players. It was a tough decision to choose eight out of the 150 players that took part in the Digicel Kick Start Clinics to train in Sunderland, but I believe the eight footballers I have selected have the right amount of talent, desire and ambition to make it as professional players. I’d like to wish them the best of luck and I really hope that I come across them again in the not too distant future playing for a leading football club.”
Niall Quinn, Chairman of Sunderland AFC, said ”Sunderland AFC is delighted to once again be hosting eight footballers from the Caribbean to take part in one week’s training at Sunderland’s Academy of Light. The footballers that trained with us last year showed great talent and I understand their football careers have gone from strength to strength over the last twelve months.”
Digicel Head of Sponsorship, Jamie Dean, said: “Digicel is delighted with the success of the 2nd Digicel Kick Start Clinics in the Caribbean. Over 150 young footballers took part in this year’s Clinics where they learned valuable skills from John Barnes.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank John for his dedication and hard work over the last two months. I’d also like to thank President Warner who is a great supporter of Digicel’s efforts in developing football across the Caribbean and Central America. With the conclusion of the Caribbean leg of the Digicel Kick Start Clinics, we are now looking forward to bringing the Clinics to Central America for the first time in August.”
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In 2008 Ryan Fredericks, of La Foucade Soccer Clinic, received the award for being the Most Valuable Player in the Under-16 category in the RSSR (Reynold George, Sammy Llewellyn, Selris Figaro and Russell Tesheira) tournament.
Ryan playing for W Connection now..
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What position does Ryan play?
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In 2008 Ryan Fredericks, of La Foucade Soccer Clinic, received the award for being the Most Valuable Player in the Under-16 category in the RSSR (Reynold George, Sammy Llewellyn, Selris Figaro and Russell Tesheira) tournament.
Ryan playing for W Connection now..
another Lafou product.
big coach!
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Excerpt from an interview with Leonson Lewis (http://www.thewarriornation.com/content/view/90/36/)
WN: What does the future hold for Leonson?
LEONSON: Just coaching and trying to harness young talent. Like I was telling Steve, I have four young players looking towards 2014. I mean good, talented players. And I put myself in charge of them. I’m trying to groom them and get them on the national team.
WN: Are they all South-based?
LEONSON: They are from Point and Carapichaima.
WN: What are their names?
LEONSON: Akil Matthews from Point Fortin, he attends Vessigny. Shaquille Stuart from Chatham, Ryan Fredericks from Carapichaima and O’Shea O’Neal who is a goalkeeper. Keep an ear out for those names.
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What position does Ryan play?
Midfeld, I think on the right
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What ever happened to Stephan De Las ?
I doubt Sunderland will sign any youths from these clinics unless they are above what they already have at their youth academy.
Following their trial period with Sunderland FC, the eight selected boys may have an opportunity to receive scholarships and eventually begin playing football in the English League- Barnes".
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Digicel brings young talent to SAFC
SAFC.com
Eight talented young footballers from the Digicel Kick Start Clinics are today packing their bags ahead of their trip to Sunderland AFC.
The Jamaican stars arrive on Wearside this weekend to take part in one week's training at Sunderland's Academy of Light.
Diquan Adamson from Barbados, Amicy Esso Faudelyn from Haiti, Omar Holness and Paul Wilson from Jamaica, Kyrhon Philip from St. Kitts, Ruiz Dillon Kromoredjo, Bruce Julianto Diporedjo from Suriname and Ryan Frederick from Trinidad have spent the last two months preparing for this once in a lifetime trip after being selected by England and Liverpool legend, John Barnes, from six clinics that took place across the Caribbean.
Speaking in advance of Friday when he flies to the UK, Barbadian, Diquan Adamson, said of his preparation over the last two months: "When I found out I was completely shocked. I've spent the last two months training really hard to make sure that I am as fit as I can be so that I can make the most out of my week in Sunderland.
"My dream is to go there and be offered a contract for a UK football club."
Head Coach, John Barnes, said of the upcoming training camp: "This is an amazing opportunity that they have to show off their talent in front of some of the best coaches in the world. It is important that they listen and learn so that they can improve on the natural football talent that they have.
"I know they have been working hard in preparation for the training camp and I'd like to wish them all the very best of luck next week in Sunderland." Sunderland Football Club
Chairman Niall Quinn added: "We are delighted to welcome the youngsters to Sunderland and to be working in partnership with Digicel once again. Our club has some of the best training facilities in Europe and the Stadium of Light is a magnificent arena so this is a great chance for these lucky boys to see what football at the highest level is all about."
The Digicel Kick Start Clinics kicked off in Jamaica in early May and on the six-nation trek across the Caribbean, made stops in Barbados, Suriname, Haiti, Trinidad & Tobago and finally St. Kitts & Nevis. For more information, log on to www.digicelfootball.com.
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I believe Ryan was on that U17 team that Cornmeal coached the other day. Ryan must be shellshocked by now. He went from being one of the eight talented players to being besmirched and bamboozled by Sir Cornbread. What a friggin farce.
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Digicel brings young talent to SAFC
SAFC.com
Eight talented young footballers from the Digicel Kick Start Clinics are today packing their bags ahead of their trip to Sunderland AFC.
The Jamaican stars arrive on Wearside this weekend to take part in one week's training at Sunderland's Academy of Light.
Diquan Adamson from Barbados, Amicy Esso Faudelyn from Haiti, Omar Holness and Paul Wilson from Jamaica, Kyrhon Philip from St. Kitts, Ruiz Dillon Kromoredjo, Bruce Julianto Diporedjo from Suriname and Ryan Frederick from Trinidad have spent the last two months preparing for this once in a lifetime trip after being selected by England and Liverpool legend, John Barnes, from six clinics that took place across the Caribbean.
Speaking in advance of Friday when he flies to the UK, Barbadian, Diquan Adamson, said of his preparation over the last two months: "When I found out I was completely shocked. I've spent the last two months training really hard to make sure that I am as fit as I can be so that I can make the most out of my week in Sunderland.
"My dream is to go there and be offered a contract for a UK football club."
Head Coach, John Barnes, said of the upcoming training camp: "This is an amazing opportunity that they have to show off their talent in front of some of the best coaches in the world. It is important that they listen and learn so that they can improve on the natural football talent that they have.
"I know they have been working hard in preparation for the training camp and I'd like to wish them all the very best of luck next week in Sunderland." Sunderland Football Club
Chairman Niall Quinn added: "We are delighted to welcome the youngsters to Sunderland and to be working in partnership with Digicel once again. Our club has some of the best training facilities in Europe and the Stadium of Light is a magnificent arena so this is a great chance for these lucky boys to see what football at the highest level is all about."
The Digicel Kick Start Clinics kicked off in Jamaica in early May and on the six-nation trek across the Caribbean, made stops in Barbados, Suriname, Haiti, Trinidad & Tobago and finally St. Kitts & Nevis. For more information, log on to www.digicelfootball.com.
I wonder if they know that Jamaica is an island, not a region.
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I believe Ryan was on that U17 team that Cornmeal coached the other day. Ryan must be shellshocked by now. He went from being one of the eight talented players to being besmirched and bamboozled by Sir Cornbread. What a friggin farce.
If Anton Corneal could besmirch and bamboozle Ryan....yuh have to wonder if he would have made it at the highest level anyway.
What Anton allegedly did was bad.....but young players have faced far greater abuse than "some players feel dey reach and haven't done nothing yet" from BIG COACHES in BIG LEAGUES.
Yuh think Dwight Yorke didn't have to overcome den kinda ting and WORSE during his career? Ron Atkinson used to regularly waste down Dwight when he was in charge at Aston Villa. We doh even scratch de surface as to what does go on behind de scenes wit players and what dey does have to put up with.
Our players have to have mental toughness to go along with dey talent. Otherwise....in dat dog eat dog world....crapaud literally smoke dey pipe.
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I believe Ryan was on that U17 team that Cornmeal coached the other day. Ryan must be shellshocked by now. He went from being one of the eight talented players to being besmirched and bamboozled by Sir Cornbread. What a friggin farce.
:rotfl: hilarious!!!
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I believe Ryan was on that U17 team that Cornmeal coached the other day. Ryan must be shellshocked by now. He went from being one of the eight talented players to being besmirched and bamboozled by Sir Cornbread. What a friggin farce.
If Anton Corneal could besmirch and bamboozle Ryan....yuh have to wonder if he would have made it at the highest level anyway.
What Anton allegedly did was bad.....but young players have faced far greater abuse than "some players feel dey reach and haven't done nothing yet" from BIG COACHES in BIG LEAGUES.
Yuh think Dwight Yorke didn't have to overcome den kinda ting and WORSE during his career? Ron Atkinson used to regularly waste down Dwight when he was in charge at Aston Villa. We doh even scratch de surface as to what does go on behind de scenes wit players and what dey does have to put up with.
Our players have to have mental toughness to go along with dey talent. Otherwise....in dat dog eat dog world....crapaud literally smoke dey pipe.
Yuh eh lie nah! Our own BIG players get cuss and in some cases rough up and worse. And dats by the coaches!
Edit: This is some years back in Europe I'm reffering to
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Digicel visit kicks off
SAFC.com
The Academy of Light have welcomed eight youngsters as part of a Digicel training programme.
Eight budding footballers began their week-long training programme at the club's Academy of Light training facility this morning as part of the Digicel Kick Start Clinics.
The youngsters, who arrived in Sunderland last weekend, will be fully integrated into the day to day operation of the training ground and put through their paces by Sunderland's coaching staff.
The eight Digicel Kick Start footballers were selected by England and Liverpool legend, John Barnes, from previous camps that kicked off in Jamaica in early May and visited Barbados, Suriname, Haiti, Trinidad & Tobago and St. Kitts & Nevis.
(http://www.safc.com/javaImages/2f/2f/0,,10281~7221039,00.jpg)
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Digicel visit kicks off
SAFC.com
The Academy of Light have welcomed eight youngsters as part of a Digicel training programme.
Eight budding footballers began their week-long training programme at the club's Academy of Light training facility this morning as part of the Digicel Kick Start Clinics.
The youngsters, who arrived in Sunderland last weekend, will be fully integrated into the day to day operation of the training ground and put through their paces by Sunderland's coaching staff.
The eight Digicel Kick Start footballers were selected by England and Liverpool legend, John Barnes, from previous camps that kicked off in Jamaica in early May and visited Barbados, Suriname, Haiti, Trinidad & Tobago and St. Kitts & Nevis.
(http://www.safc.com/javaImages/2f/2f/0,,10281~7221039,00.jpg)
Who is da tall fella on the right? If he impress I think he might have a better chance than some of the others (especially if he's a defender).
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Any updates?
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Digicel Kick start Clinics Footballers enjoy day one of training at Sunderland AFC'S Academy of light
digicelfootball.com
Monday, August 23rd 2010 – Sunderland, England: Eight young footballers from the Caribbean and Central America – who were selected by England and Liverpool football legend, John Barnes, from the Digicel Kick Start Clinics 2010 – today began their training at Sunderland AFC’s Academy of Light, where they will spend one week working with some of the best coaches in the Barclay’s Premier League.
The boys – who arrived in Sunderland on Saturday – enjoyed a rest day yesterday before beginning their training programme this morning. Academy Coach, Carlton Fairweather, put the boys through their paces today and said; “Day one of the training focused on possession of the ball, dribbling and teamwork and I was very impressed with what I saw.
“The boys definitely have ability and they showed some great techniques and skills. I will be watching them keenly throughout the week.”
Today kicked off with a tour of the facilities including the gym, the water therapy room and the senior team’s lounge. They then went through a full physical health check before training commenced.
Winner of the Trinidad leg of the Digicel Kick Start Clinics, 13 year-old Matthew Woo Ling, said; “I am very excited to be here. The Academy and its facilities are very impressive and I really enjoyed today’s training. I met Coach Fairweather when he came to Trinidad last December, so I am familiar with his style and I’m very happy to have the chance to spend one week training underneath him.”
Matthew Woo Ling from Trinidad & Tobago; Vidal Gonzalez and Fernando Meneses from Panama; Jose Villavicencio, Bryan Landaverde and Alvaro Lizama from El Salvador; and Julio Oliva and German Mejia from Honduras were the eight most talented footballers selected by John Barnes from the Digicel Kick Start Clinics.
The Digicel Kick Start Clinics are supported by Jack Warner, Vice President of FIFA and President of both CONCACAF and the Caribbean Football Union.
The Clinics – which kicked off on July 20th in Trinidad & Tobago, before moving on to Panama, El Salvador and Honduras – saw 150 talented young footballers receive expert coaching in the beautiful game.
Digicel has been involved in a wide range of football initiatives designed to support the development of football in the Caribbean and Central America over the last six years. Digicel, which has operations in 32 countries worldwide, sponsors 17 Football Federations and Leagues, as well as the Digicel Caribbean Cup and the Copa de Naciones Digicel in Central America.
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(http://www.digicelfootball.com/assets/images/galleries/dksc-footballers-enjoy-day-one-of-training/hires/12825951181.jpg)
(http://www.digicelfootball.com/assets/images/galleries/dksc-footballers-enjoy-day-one-of-training/hires/12825950781.jpg)
(http://www.digicelfootball.com/assets/images/galleries/dksc-footballers-enjoy-day-one-of-training/hires/12825950782.jpg)
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d youth man from Trinidad have some touches, i saw him on news playing
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DIGICEL KICK START CLINICS FOOTBALLERS ENJOY VIP TREATMENT AT SUNDERLAND AFC’S
SECOND ROUND CARLING CUP MATCH IN THE STADIUM OF LIGHT
Wednesday, August 25th 2010 – Sunderland, England: Eight young footballers from the Caribbean and Central America – who were selected by England and Liverpool football legend, John Barnes, from the Digicel Kick Start Clinics 2010 – last night got the chance to watch Sunderland AFC beat Colchester 2-0 in the second round of the Carling Cup at Sunderland’s Academy of Light.
The aspiring young footballers – who will spend one week working with some of the best coaches in the Barclay’s Premier League at Sunderland AFC’s Academy of Light – took their place in the ‘Black Cats’ seats last night – an area reserved for VIPs and die-hard fans.
The boys – who arrived in Sunderland on Saturday – completed their third day of training today which kicked off with some passing and dribbling with members of the Academy’s under 16 team. The group also got the chance to discuss the qualities the Academy looks for in its players such as teamwork, attitude and determination.
Digicel Group Head of Sponsorship, Karl Donnelly, said; “This is the third day of training and I am very excited about what I have seen. There is real talent among the group and the coaching sessions are definitely helping to improve the boys’ skills.
“The boys are also spending time with the under 16 Academy players which will help them gain an understanding of the other qualities that are required to make it at a professional level in football. Having the talent is necessary, but so too are teamwork, discipline and hard work – and it’s great that the boys are seeing this first hand.”
Today the boys took a tour of the Stadium of Light’s world class amenities – including the first team’s dressing rooms, the hospitality area, the gym, the treatment rooms and hydro-therapy pool area, as well as the pitch itself which is one of the best in England. A delegation from FIFA was also at the Stadium this morning evaluating England's bid for the 2018 World Cup so the Digicel Kick Start Clinics winners are in good company.
Winner of the Honduras leg of the Digicel Kick Start Clinics, 15 year-old Julio Oliva, said; “We have been very lucky so far in that we have had some great training sessions with the coaches which are helping us to improve our game. Last night was an amazing experience – to watch a premiership team play on their home ground was something I’ve always dreamt of.
“Meeting with the under 16 Academy players was also great. We got to speak about their training schedule, what the coaches are looking for and what it takes to play at a professional level,” he continued.
Matthew Woo Ling from Trinidad & Tobago; Vidal Gonzalez and Fernando Meneses from Panama; Jose Villavicencio, Bryan Landaverde and Alvaro Lizama from El Salvador; and Julio Oliva and German Mejia from Honduras were the eight most talented footballers selected by John Barnes from the Digicel Kick Start Clinics.
The Digicel Kick Start Clinics are supported by Jack Warner, Vice President of FIFA and President of both CONCACAF and the Caribbean Football Union.
The Clinics – which kicked off on July 20th in Trinidad & Tobago, before moving on to Panama, El Salvador and Honduras – saw 150 talented young footballers receive expert coaching in the beautiful game.
Digicel has been involved in a wide range of football initiatives designed to support the development of football in the Caribbean and Central America over the last six years. Digicel, which has operations in 32 countries worldwide, sponsors 17 Football Federations and Leagues, as well as the Digicel Caribbean Cup and the Copa de Naciones Digicel in Central America.
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Digicel partners with Chelsea for 2012 Kick Start clinic.
By: Shaun Fuentes.
Digicel has launched the 2012 Digicel Kick Start Clinics in Miami, in partnership with European and FA Cup Champions, Chelsea Football Club. At the launch, Chelsea first-team players Yossi Benayoun and Michael Essien took part in the coaching clinic with 30 young players from the Caribbean and Central American Diaspora communities of South Florida.
Fernando Torres, Petr Cech, John Terry and Frank Lampard, among other Chelsea first team players were also in Miami for the World Football challenge match against AC Milan.
The Digicel Kick Start Clinics—which are now in their fifth year—will see thousands of aspiring young footballers from across the eight countries in the Caribbean including T&T, Central America and US try out for their chance to travel to the Digicel Academy where they will be trained by Chelsea FC Foundation coaches.
Following the launch of the first clinic, where over 30 boys between the ages of 14 and 16 were trained by Foundation coaches and Chelsea club ambassador, Graeme Le Saux, the Clinics will move on to Panama where Digicel Kick Start head coach John Barnes will train over 30 boys from across the country.
The Clinics project will then be extended to Haiti, Suriname, Grenada, T&T, St Lucia, St Kitts and Nevis and Jamaica. The top four most talented footballers from each country will be chosen to travel to the Digicel Academy, which takes place in Barbados in October.
Le Saux added: “Growing up on an island, there were barriers that I had to finding a pathway to succeed and it is the same for anyone who wants to do something off-island. There has to be a connection between you and where you want to get to and if that is not made, most people give up.”
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Barnes picks T&T trio for Digicel Academy.
T&T Guardian Reports.
The local trio of Taryk Sampson, Yafeu Rougier and Anthony Samuel was chosen by former England international and Liverpool legend John Barnes to join their Concacaf peers at a week-long Digicel Academy in October.
Despite bad weather, the sixth leg of this year’s Digicel Kick Start Clinics programme went ahead at the St Joseph Convent Ground, Federation Park, St Clair on Saturday and Sunday in what was described by Barnes, as “a display of some of the best talent to date.”
The trio will join their peers from across eight other countries at the camp in Barbados, where they will be put through their paces by coaches from European Champions League winners’ Chelsea FC in Barbados and experience life as a professional footballer.
Rougier, the nephew of former Soca Warriors captain, Anthony Rougier, spoke about how it felt to be chosen. He said: “I am very excited and I am very much looking forward to meeting new people and learning from the Chelsea coaches—as well as to traveling to Barbados for the first time.
I have been playing football for the past eight years, and I play for W Connection in the Youth T&T Pro League in which I was last year’s top scorer.
“The Digicel Clinic with Barnes was a great experience as his first-hand coaching provided me with useful information, explanations and tips on how to better my game. I am looking forward to Barbados as I expect to get even more useful tips on mastering my play.”
Barnes said he was impressed with this year’s display of talent. “I was really surprised. In fact—it’s been the best so far of this year’s programme.
To be clear, the quality is always high here, but this year I found the quantity of excellent players has increased and I could easily have chosen 12 or 13 boys—which is fantastic and speaks to the ongoing development of football in the country.
I was so impressed that I have recommended a number of names to a US scout working here on the ground as potential drafts to soccer scholarships.”
The clinics continue through to St Lucia, St Kitts/Nevis before coming to a finish this weekend in Jamaica as Barnes searches for the region’s top footballing talent.
(http://www.guardian.co.tt/sites/default/files/field/image/Digicelclinic.png)
(From left to right) Digicel T&T CEO, John Delves, with the winners of the Trinidad leg of the Digicel Kick Start Clinics, Taryk Sampson, Yafeu Rougier, Anthony Samuel and Kick Start head coach, John Barnes.
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Barnes picks T&T trio for Digicel Academy.
T&T Guardian Reports.
The local trio of Taryk Sampson, Yafeu Rougier and Anthony Samuel was chosen by former England international and Liverpool legend John Barnes to join their Concacaf peers at a week-long Digicel Academy in October.
Despite bad weather, the sixth leg of this year’s Digicel Kick Start Clinics programme went ahead at the St Joseph Convent Ground, Federation Park, St Clair on Saturday and Sunday in what was described by Barnes, as “a display of some of the best talent to date.”
The trio will join their peers from across eight other countries at the camp in Barbados, where they will be put through their paces by coaches from European Champions League winners’ Chelsea FC in Barbados and experience life as a professional footballer.
Rougier, the nephew of former Soca Warriors captain, Anthony Rougier, spoke about how it felt to be chosen. He said: “I am very excited and I am very much looking forward to meeting new people and learning from the Chelsea coaches—as well as to traveling to Barbados for the first time.
I have been playing football for the past eight years, and I play for W Connection in the Youth T&T Pro League in which I was last year’s top scorer.
“The Digicel Clinic with Barnes was a great experience as his first-hand coaching provided me with useful information, explanations and tips on how to better my game. I am looking forward to Barbados as I expect to get even more useful tips on mastering my play.”
Barnes said he was impressed with this year’s display of talent. “I was really surprised. In fact—it’s been the best so far of this year’s programme.
To be clear, the quality is always high here, but this year I found the quantity of excellent players has increased and I could easily have chosen 12 or 13 boys—which is fantastic and speaks to the ongoing development of football in the country.
I was so impressed that I have recommended a number of names to a US scout working here on the ground as potential drafts to soccer scholarships.”
The clinics continue through to St Lucia, St Kitts/Nevis before coming to a finish this weekend in Jamaica as Barnes searches for the region’s top footballing talent.
(http://www.guardian.co.tt/sites/default/files/field/image/Digicelclinic.png)
(From left to right) Digicel T&T CEO, John Delves, with the winners of the Trinidad leg of the Digicel Kick Start Clinics, Taryk Sampson, Yafeu Rougier, Anthony Samuel and Kick Start head coach, John Barnes.
Its a great achievement by the lads, but I have to say that I'm even more impressed by the information that the DigicelTT CEO is so young. Looking at the photo, he must be no more than 17 :rotfl:
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You can surely count on the T&T press to make at least a few mistakes per-article. ;D
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You can surely count on the T&T press to make at least a few mistakes per-article. ;D
:beermug:
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Yafeu Rougier not even on the under 17 team none of them are as a matter of fact ... ??? ??? ??? sure these are the best players ....
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Who promoted this ??
When did it take place ??
Who was invited to try out ??
When these questions are answered then and only then can football start to make any kind of progress in TnT.
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Digicel partners with Chelsea for 2012 Kick Start clinic.
By: Shaun Fuentes.
The Clinics project will then be extended to Haiti, Suriname, Grenada, T&T, St Lucia, St Kitts and Nevis and Jamaica. The top four most talented footballers from each country will be chosen to travel to the Digicel Academy, which takes place in Barbados in October.
Barnes picks T&T trio for Digicel Academy.
T&T Guardian Reports.
The local trio of Taryk Sampson, Yafeu Rougier and Anthony Samuel was chosen by former England international and Liverpool legend John Barnes to join their Concacaf peers at a week-long Digicel Academy in October.
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Yafeu Rougier not even on the under 17 team none of them are as a matter of fact ... ??? ??? ??? sure these are the best players ....
samuel played in the u-14 league, the other two were in u-16. surprising omissions from the national squads seeing as the youth was top scorer in the same league where the bulk of the NT was selected. and especially since cooper said he had problems finding goal scorers. same situation happened previously with woo ling...chosen for digicel but not chosen for the NT.
maybe he still too green or omitted himself from selection. cooper is a serious coach, but its t&t football, so who knows
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Digicel clinic starts in Barbados.
T&T Guardian Reports.
The much-anticipated Digicel Football Academy kicked off on Monday at the Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados, with a press conference to mark the official launch of the training camp where 32 aspiring young footballers will be trained by coaches from European and English FA Cup champions, Chelsea.
The Digicel Academy marks the culmination of the 2012 Digicel Kick Start Clinics and sees the crème de la crème of the region’s young footballing talent come together for the opportunity of a lifetime by spending one week being trained in the beautiful game under Chelsea coaches, David Monk, Robert Udberg and Olly Woodall. In addition, the Chelsea coaches will host a ‘coach the coaches’ session in which they will impart invaluable youth training tips to nine coaches from across the region.
For the 32 aspiring young footballers, which includes T&T trio Taryk Sampson, Yafeu Rougier and Anthony Samuel, the Digicel Academy is a dream come true following months of local try-outs followed by the Digicel Kick Start Clinics under the leadership of Liverpool and England footballing legend, John Barnes.
Chelsea International Football Development Officer and Academy Coach, David Monk, said; “For Chelsea, this is the first in our three year partnership with Digicel and we are very excited to be here. To the 32 boys from across the region, it’s a truly fantastic opportunity and, on behalf of my colleagues and I, we would like to wish you all the very best of luck this week. “I encourage you all to listen, learn and enjoy your time at the Digicel Academy.”
Special guest at the press conference was President of the Caribbean Football Union, Gordon Derrick.
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Am I the only one that see these clinic as a waste of time they get these youngsters hopes up by taking them to these clubs with no reward in return did any player from these so called academy get a professional contract.
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Am I the only one that see these clinic as a waste of time they get these youngsters hopes up by taking them to these clubs with no reward in return did any player from these so called academy get a professional contract.
It most certainly isn't a waste of time, and I frown on your negative comments!!! The Digicel Kick Start Clinic is a superb marketing tool for Digicel, John Barnes and Chelsea Football Club. Definitely, marketing money well spent. :devil:
Of course, it breaks the heart of every kid who attends the "final" and doesn't win and gives false hope to the boys that win it.
It is what it is ...a marketing tool, just like most of the franchised soccer schools around the world. I'm not saying that some talented youths aren't discovered now and again, but mostly this is about making money.
However, with the limited options available in the Caribbean, it gives kids a taste of proper football coaching and I'm sure they will pick up useful tips and skills. It's also useful to have on ones resume. I hope that Chelsea and/or John Barnes keep tabs on these kids, but I doubt it. None of them could sign for Chelsea (unless they have EU passports). I would prefer the money spent on a true academy where kids can spend 2 years preparing for the European game or even MLS. But that would not have the same marketing appeal.
Fair play to Digicel, they're at least providing glamour and excitement, but the parents need to be made aware that they need to manage expectations.
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Am I the only one that see these clinic as a waste of time they get these youngsters hopes up by taking them to these clubs with no reward in return did any player from these so called academy get a professional contract.
It most certainly isn't a waste of time, and I frown on your negative comments!!! The Digicel Kick Start Clinic is a superb marketing tool for Digicel, John Barnes and Chelsea Football Club. Definitely, marketing money well spent. :devil:
Of course, it breaks the heart of every kid who attends the "final" and doesn't win and gives false hope to the boys that win it.
It is what it is ...a marketing tool, just like most of the franchised soccer schools around the world. I'm not saying that some talented youths aren't discovered now and again, but mostly this is about making money.
However, with the limited options available in the Caribbean, it gives kids a taste of proper football coaching and I'm sure they will pick up useful tips and skills. It's also useful to have on ones resume. I hope that Chelsea and/or John Barnes keep tabs on these kids, but I doubt it. None of them could sign for Chelsea (unless they have EU passports). I would prefer the money spent on a true academy where kids can spend 2 years preparing for the European game or even MLS. But that would not have the same marketing appeal.
Fair play to Digicel, they're at least providing glamour and excitement, but the parents need to be made aware that they need to manage expectations.
It does serve another purpose. It exposes talented T&T youth to their CONCACAF peers. Might be important for addressing the 'big fish in a small pond' syndrome exhibited by some of our players. Nothing like a little competition to curtail starboyitis
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Am I the only one that see these clinic as a waste of time they get these youngsters hopes up by taking them to these clubs with no reward in return did any player from these so called academy get a professional contract.
It most certainly isn't a waste of time, and I frown on your negative comments!!! The Digicel Kick Start Clinic is a superb marketing tool for Digicel, John Barnes and Chelsea Football Club. Definitely, marketing money well spent. :devil:
Of course, it breaks the heart of every kid who attends the "final" and doesn't win and gives false hope to the boys that win it.
It is what it is ...a marketing tool, just like most of the franchised soccer schools around the world. I'm not saying that some talented youths aren't discovered now and again, but mostly this is about making money.
However, with the limited options available in the Caribbean, it gives kids a taste of proper football coaching and I'm sure they will pick up useful tips and skills. It's also useful to have on ones resume. I hope that Chelsea and/or John Barnes keep tabs on these kids, but I doubt it. None of them could sign for Chelsea (unless they have EU passports). I would prefer the money spent on a true academy where kids can spend 2 years preparing for the European game or even MLS. But that would not have the same marketing appeal.
Fair play to Digicel, they're at least providing glamour and excitement, but the parents need to be made aware that they need to manage expectations.
It does serve another purpose. It exposes talented T&T youth to their CONCACAF peers. Might be important for addressing the 'big fish in a small pond' syndrome exhibited by some of our players. Nothing like a little competition to curtail starboyitis
True, But do they really think they're the best in the Caribbean? But I suppose they may realise that there are talented kids out there from even the smallest islands.
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Rougier enjoying Digicel stint.
T&T Newsday Reports.
TRINIDAD and Tobago’s Yafeu Rougier is enjoying his time at the 2012 Digicel Academy currently underway in Barbados with coaches from European Champions League champion, Chelsea FC, conducting training sessions with the participants.
Rougier, who was part of the Academy last year, says he is learning a lot and will be sharing all that he has learnt with his team-mates once he returns to Trinidad.
The 2012 Digicel Academy marks the first of a three-year partnership with Chelsea FC. Three International Development Coaches, David Monk, Robert Udberg and Olly Woodall, have brought their technical skills and talents to Barbados where boys from the Caribbean, Central America and the diaspora participate in the Digicel Academy – showing their skill, while, at the same time, having fun and making new friends.
The 16-year-old TT player explained that the training sessions are more intense the second time around because his own expectations are greater.
Since his last time at the Academy, Yafeu says he has made great strides towards improving his game by using the techniques and tips he gained last year and being at this year’s Academy, his goal is no different.
He explains; “Being at the Academy last year was so good because I was able to learn new techniques and improve my game. When I was selected again for this year’s Digicel Academy, I had no doubt that I would get the same high level of training and guidance.
“I plan to share what I have learned from the Academy with my team-mates back home in Trinidad and Tobago. For those footballers who want to have a successful football career, my advice for them is to work hard and when you are given an opportunity such as attending the Digicel Academy – you should grasp it with both hands and make the best of it.”
Meanwhile, Sorencio Juliaans of Suriname believes the Academy gives him a chance to learn the rudiments of the game and believes working hard will reap success.
“Applying the strategies I’m learning to move the team forward is just as important as individual success. I play for a first division football team back home in Suriname and being here at the Academy is a great experience for me because I am getting training from some of the best coaches in the world. I like the way the coaches from Chelsea FC give detailed advice during the sessions and guide me through every play and technique.”
He continues; “The most important thing I have learned from the Chelsea coaches is that, to be the best footballer, you have to work hard and not give up. You have to love playing football and that passion will motivate you to continue to work on your game even after the Academy is over. They also encourage you to never forget that getting an education is just as important in football as learning how to pass the ball, so I try to give my best both on and off the field.”
Chelsea International Football Development Officer and Academy Coach, David Monk, gave his thoughts on how important it is for players to continue training and developing their game even after they leave the Academy.
The Digicel Academy is a week-long elite training camp which takes place in Barbados from October 29 - November 3.
Since 2004, Digicel have been involved in a wide range of football initiatives designed to support the development of football in the Caribbean and Central America.
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Kori Cupid, 15, Sebastian Camacho, 16, and 14-year-old Travell Edwards were chosen from 31 participants of the local leg of the Digicel Kick Start Clinic at the Digicel Box at the Queen’s Park Oval, St Clair, on Monday.
The selections were made after an intense session with the Chelsea coaches at the King George V Park earlier that day.
Making the announcements was Chelsea Foundation coach David Monk, the senior international football development officer, who said the “benchmark was set very high.”
For Camacho, this was his second attempt to try out for the clinic and his hard work and determination paid off.
The three young footballers will represent T&T in a week-long training session at Digicel Academy in Barbados in October.
Each of the boys that attended the clinic were given a certificate of participation signed by Monk.
http://www.socawarriors.net/league/league-news/minor-leagues/12341-chelsea-coaches-name-three-for-digicel-academy.html
Very good player... should be involved with the Fatima team this season, just turned 16 .. one of the best technically gifted youths I've seen in a long time, and full of leadership qualities
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Lol....There lies our problem. He just turned 16 and his only option is Intercol. At 16 other players are signing contracts or hustling for one. We need to step it up.
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Lol....There lies our problem. He just turned 16 and his only option is Intercol. At 16 other players are signing contracts or hustling for one. We need to step it up.
Do we know that's his only choice, or is that the choice he made? Is he furthering his education rather than chance a career in football? Has he been advised to stay in school? Has he tried to play for any of the Pro Leagues youth teams?
Central have 16 year olds being prepared to be sent overseas, so if he is as good as they say, he should be looking in that direction. I don't know these three guys, so I can't comment on their potential, but I'd love to have them along to training to take a look.
One thing is certain, to get into British football you have to get into an academy at age 16 so you have two years on a student visa. Then you are eligible for a work permit. At 17, its very hard and by 18 the only way is the 75% rule, which effectively holds you back until at least early 20's, by which time, it's even harder to break through. Hence, 16 is the pivotal age.
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Lol....There lies our problem. He just turned 16 and his only option is Intercol. At 16 other players are signing contracts or hustling for one. We need to step it up.
Do we know that's his only choice, or is that the choice he made? Is he furthering his education rather than chance a career in football? Has he been advised to stay in school? Has he tried to play for any of the Pro Leagues youth teams?
Central have 16 year olds being prepared to be sent overseas, so if he is as good as they say, he should be looking in that direction. I don't know these three guys, so I can't comment on their potential, but I'd love to have them along to training to take a look.
One thing is certain, to get into British football you have to get into an academy at age 16 so you have two years on a student visa. Then you are eligible for a work permit. At 17, its very hard and by 18 the only way is the 75% rule, which effectively holds you back until at least early 20's, by which time, it's even harder to break through. Hence, 16 is the pivotal age.
FS..check your inbox
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Lol....There lies our problem. He just turned 16 and his only option is Intercol. At 16 other players are signing contracts or hustling for one. We need to step it up.
Do we know that's his only choice, or is that the choice he made? Is he furthering his education rather than chance a career in football? Has he been advised to stay in school? Has he tried to play for any of the Pro Leagues youth teams?
Central have 16 year olds being prepared to be sent overseas, so if he is as good as they say, he should be looking in that direction. I don't know these three guys, so I can't comment on their potential, but I'd love to have them along to training to take a look.
One thing is certain, to get into British football you have to get into an academy at age 16 so you have two years on a student visa. Then you are eligible for a work permit. At 17, its very hard and by 18 the only way is the 75% rule, which effectively holds you back until at least early 20's, by which time, it's even harder to break through. Hence, 16 is the pivotal age.
FS..check your inbox
Got it! Thanks :salute:
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Banter Banton Is this the kid who played with Rangers youth pro league u14 team? Is his old man a fella they call fowl?
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AMWOOD...Fowls son..rangers player..is Dlion Abraham...they/we are all close friends...
Dilon is very very talented ...gifted...both grand fathers played for tnt
Sebastian Camacho..also very talented...trains like a beast....very dedicated...his father is the drummer of my band (jointpop)...and close family friends.
Sebastian also played banjo on my new album...he is an awesome musician also ( drums...piano...guitar..cuatro...bass...banjo)
he opted out of youth pro league this season to train with Jah Lillywhite.
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Oh okay, I remember seeing some clips of the youth pro league game involving rangers and then running into Fowl at a local "old man" tournament...he mentioned his son was at Fatima. If the Chelsea thing doesn't work out, I would love to chat with him, may have an excellent opportunity for him. In fact would have liked to have seen all three of the guys selected. By the way Jah is a boss! I don't think he gets any credit for the work he does with youth players! Even today Russell will tell you that he was one of his biggest influences! Anyway hope these three guys selected are success!
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39 qualify for Digicel clinic.
T&T Express Reports.
THE FULL compliment of 39 young footballers have now been chosen for the week-long Digicel Chelsea Football Academy in November.
The footballers are among the best young prospects and have been chosen from the series of Digicel Kick Start Clinics, which was held in 11 Caribbean countries. The 2013 Digicel Chelsea Football Academy takes place in Barbados under the guidance of youth coach from the Chelsea Football Academy.
Now that the group has been picked, Chelsea Foundation coach David Monk expects some fantastic football at the Barbados Academy.
“I think the fact that we’ve hand-picked a group of Caribbean all-stars to be divided evenly and equally across three teams for the week-long Academy, means we do have high expectations.
We’re not over expecting, but we have picked 39 fantastic ambassadors and we’ve been very fair to every position in a team so everyone has the ability to showcase their talent and represent their country well,” he said.
(http://media.trinidadexpress.com/images/sp4100.jpg)
BERMUDA’S BEST: The winners of the Bermuda leg of the Digicel Kick Start Clinics pose with the three coaches from the Chelsea Foundation. From left to right are Amar Lewis, Chelsea Foundation Coach Kane Cowburn, Tyriko Williams, coach David Monk, Te’vahn Williams, coach Russell Banyard and Bermuda Clinic Wild Card Mazhye Burchall.
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Digicel Kick Start Academy welcomes TT quartet.
T&T Newsday Reports.
TRAVELL EDWARDS, Sebastian Camacho, Kori Cupid and wildcard Raheam Borde left Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday to take part in the week-long Digicel/Chelsea Kick Start Academy.
The Academy will be staged in Barbados — it began on Sunday and runs until November 17. The boys will receive hands-on training from coaches of the English Premier League’s Chelsea FC.
The successful players were observed and assessed under the watchful eyes of Digicel Kick Start Clinics coaches, who selected the aspiring football stars based on skills, discipline and commitment displayed at the Digicel Kick Start Clinics across the Caribbean and Central America earlier this year.
In 2013, there was also the possibility of a wildcard chosen for the Academy in each participating country — Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua/Barbuda, Bermuda, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Panama, St Lucia, St Kitts/Nevis, St Vincent/Grenadines and Suriname.
The wildcard was selected based on the performance results from the strength and agility tests that were run during the clinics by the Chelsea FC Foundation coaches. The wildcard selectee from each country was then placed in a raffle for a chance to be among the three names to be drawn by Chelsea FC utility player Ryan Bertrand and had the opportunity to win a space at the Digicel/Chelsea FC Academy this November.
Borde was one of the lucky wildcard winners who joined the other three “Trinis” participating in the Academy.
Once again, Digicel demonstrated its commitment to developing such a great team sport while the young footballers across the region continue to display, year after year, the highest level of talent.
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T&T raise Digicel kick start bar.
T&T Express Reports.
The players who participated at the Digicel Kick Start Clinics hosted in Trinidad and Tobago last week, made a positive impact on the Chelsea FC Foundation Coaches.
The Digicel Kick Start Clinics - now in their eighth year - will again see thousands of aspiring young footballers from across 14 countries in the Caribbean and Central America try out for their chance to travel to the Digicel Academy in Barbados and train under top coaches from Barclays Premier League side, Chelsea FC.
During the week-long Digicel Academy, the top 42 boys from across the region get the chance of a lifetime to receive intensive training under coaches from Barclays Premier League side, Chelsea Football Club.
Senior International Football Development Officer and Digicel Kick Start head coach, David Monk, said: “Over the years, Trinidad and Tobago has always fielded some of the strongest players at the Academy and, this year, we were just as impressed with the boys’ athleticism and knowledge of the game.
‘’Their tenacity, flair and technical ability was evident and, after the first day of training, we could easily identify at least nine players who were of the calibre required to attend the Academy. On the second day, picking the top three became an even harder task as more players started to join the list of footballers who we wanted to see at the Academy—an impressive feat.”
Monk was also impressed by the local coaches who were very knowledgeable about the latest coaching strategies and techniques-- an indication that the Digicel football development programme is working.
He continued: “We were also happy that the coaches were very engaged during the open forum segment of the coach education session where we shared the methods and strategies we use at Chelsea FC. They also got a chance to see these methods applied in a real-life setting while they observed how we interacted with the boys during the Clinics.”
Monk and his team will be heading to Bermuda as the next stop on the Clinics tour, where they will select the best three boys from that country to attend the Academy in Barbados.
(http://media.trinidadexpress.com/images/expr16.jpg)
PROUD PARTICIPANTS: Winners of the Trinidad and Tobago Kick Start Clinics, from left to right, 15-year-old Oshan George, 16-year-old Anthony Herbert, 15-year-old Renaldo Francois and 14-year-old Rahim Gordon with the Chelsea FC Foundation coaches, second and fourth from left.
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Kick Start coaches arrive in Caribbean
T&T Express Reports.
Chelsea FC Foundation coaches received a warm welcome when they arrived at the Courtleigh Hotel and Suites in Jamaica for the start of the annual Digicel Kickstart youth football coaching programme.
Coach Steve Winnett and his fellow Chelsea FC Foundation coaches are preparing for the start of the Digicel Kickstart Academy which begins today and ends on November 1.
The Chelsea FC Foundation coaches will host 42 of the best young football talents in the Caribbean and Central America at the Digicel Kickstart Academy, where they will be training 42 aspiring young footballers from 13 countries across the Caribbean and Central America at Sabina Park.
Players will undergo a week of intense training similar to the programme carried out in the Chelsea FC youth team programme, culminating with a match against Jamaica’s National Under-16 team.
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Chelsea star to regional youth: Stay focused
T&T Guardian Reports
Former Chelsea FC and Portugal defender Paulo Ferreira made his first visit to Jamaica, where he engaged with teenaged footballers from across the Caribbean at the Digicel Kickstart Academy and encouraged the charges to make the most of their opportunity.
He advised them to keep focused on their careers in the game.
“Listen to your coaches. They are very good and will help you to improve your game. Also, make sure that you never give up... Keep chasing your dreams,” he said.
“I remember watching my favourite players on the television in my village and saying one day that I would like to be playing at that level. So keep working hard and you can achieve greatness.”
Ferreira was present for the start of the Academy which is being hosted in Jamaica for the first time. At the first training session, he shared his experience playing for Chelsea as well as some of the highlights of his career, including winning the Champions League title with Chelsea in 2011 and making it to the final of the European Championships with the Portugal national football team in 2004.
The boys were very excited to meet the two-time Champions League winner and got a chance to ask him questions, which he was happy to address, much to their delight.
Digicel group head of sponsorship James Wynne said: “We are happy to have Paulo Ferreira and the Chelsea FC Foundation coaches here at the Kickstart Academy and I am sure the boys enjoyed meeting such a legendary player.
“Digicel continues to help to develop football at the grassroots level because we believe this will help to start them on the path to a possible professional career.
“Today’s professional players started out at grassroots clubs and were scouted from there and as such, we are developing young players technically at the earliest possible opportunity through the Digicel Kickstart programme.”
The Digicel Kickstart Academy sees 42 boys from across the Caribbean and Central America go through a week of intense training that will culminate in a final match between the academy players and the Jamaica national Under-16 team.
This is the first time that the Digicel Kickstart Academy has been held in Jamaica at the historic Sabina Park—an important sporting venue in the region which is known for hosting world class cricket matches.
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Digicel Kick Start Clinic begins Saturday
T&T Newsday Reports.
ASPIRING FOOTBALL stars from across the country will have the opportunity to showcase their talent during the 2015 Digicel Kick Start Clinic Pre-Screening Selection at the Nelson Mandela Park in St Clair on Saturday and at the Canaan/Bon Accord Grounds, Bon Accord in Tobago on April 1.
From this selection, the successful athletes will move on to the next phase of the program which involves an intense training schedule during the two-day Digicel Kick Start Clinic hosted by coaches of the Chelsea FC on April 12 and 13.
The Digicel Kick Start Clinic, a developmental program, was first launched in 2008 to present aspiring footballers, between the ages of 14-16, with a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ opportunity to attend the prestigious Digicel Kick Start Academy.
Last year, hundreds of youngsters tried out for their place to be coached under three top coaches from Chelsea FC. Thirty athletes were selected from each country and given the chance during the Digicel Kick Start Clinic to train under the coaches and showcase their passion and skill for the game of football.
At the end of the clinic, three teenagers were selected by the Chelsea coaches to participate in the Digicel Kick Start Academy which was held last year in Barbados. For those interested in registering to participate in this year’s Kick Start Clinic, registration forms are now available and should be completed and returned to Digicel by today.
Candidates can register through Digicel TT’s Facebook page - facebook.com/digiceltt. Registration forms are also available at the following Digicel Front Office locations at Ansa Centre, 11C Maraval Road, Port of Spain; Gulf City Mall, San Fernando and Milford Road, Scarborough, Tobago.
RELATED NEWS
27 players chosen for Kick Start Clinic
T&T Newsday Reports.
A TOTAL of 27 young and aspiring footballers were yesterday selected to be a part of a two-day Digicel Kick Start Clinic hosted by coaches of current English Premier League leaders, Chelsea FC, on April 12-13 at St Mary’s College Sports Ground, St Clair.
At the 2015 pre-screening selection, which kicked off at the neighbouring Nelson Mandela Park in St Clair yesterday, over 200 young footballers between the ages of 14 to 16 came out in an effort to grab a golden chance of showcasing their talents under the watchful and professional eyes of Chelsea’s tutors.
Altogether, 30 representatives will be selected from the twin-island republic, with the remaining three being chosen from the sister-isle, in their pre-screening session on April 1 at Canaan/Bon Accord Grounds.
Speaking to Digicel’s marketing executive Zindzi-Renee Williams at yesterday’s screening, she was pleased with the strong turnout and reiterated the importance of injecting sport into young people at this crucial age.
“This is our eighth edition and we’re very happy with turnout (yesterday) because it’s better than last year,” said Williams. “Digicel hired qualified coaches from the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation and as you can see, there’s a lot of good talent here.
“Digicel ensures its sport orientation and is also a main sponsor for the Trinidad and Tobago Pro League. With initiatives like the Kick Start Academy, we like to start sourcing talents from a young age. This programme also takes place in all of Digicel’s territories.”
The Digicel Kick Start Clinic, a developmental programme, was first launched in 2008 to present aspiring footballers (ages 14-16), with a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ opportunity to attend the prestigious Digicel Kick Start Academy.
Last year, hundreds of youngsters tried out for their place to be coached under three top coaches from Chelsea FC. Thirty athletes were selected from each country and given the chance during the Digicel Kick Start Clinic to train under the coaches and showcase their passion and skill for the game of football. At the end of the clinic, three young men were selected by the Chelsea coaches to participate in the Digicel Kick Start Academy which was held last year in Barbados.
Registration for the Tobago-leg is still ongoing and is expected to conclude on March 31. Forms for this session can be picked up at Ansa Centre, 11C Maraval Road, Port-of-Spain; Gulf City Mall, San Fernando and Milford Road, Scarborough, Tobago.
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The Finalists from Trinidad advancing to the Digicel Kick Start Clinic on April 12 and 13
John-Paul Rochford
Shem Clauzel,
Luke Darwent
Trey Lamott
Andre Raymond
Jadah Garcia,
Darian Parks
Mark Ramdeen
Tyrese Pierre
Jabari Graham,
Ronald Charles
Kalif Phillip
Kareem Walker
Tshad Selvon
Rawle Felix
Roger Williams
Kyrese Eugene
Trevin Thomas
Ronaldo Edwards
Kevon Edwards
Stephon Marcano
Denzil Smith
Revaldo Prince
Jabari Brice
Elijah Shade
Tyrel Emmanuel
Jodel Brown
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(https://s3.amazonaws.com/wp-ag/wp-content/uploads/sites/66/2015/03/kickstart-pre-screening-1.jpg)
(https://s3.amazonaws.com/wp-ag/wp-content/uploads/sites/66/2015/03/kickstart-pre-screening-3.jpg)
(https://s3.amazonaws.com/wp-ag/wp-content/uploads/sites/66/2015/03/kickstart-pre-screening-5.jpg)
Source (http://looptt.com/2015/03/24/digicel-hosts-kick-start-clinic-pre-screening/)
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The Finalists from Trinidad advancing to the Digicel Kick Start Clinic on April 12 and 13
John-Paul Rochford
Shem Clauzel,
Luke Darwent
Trey Lamott
Andre Raymond
Jadah Garcia,
Darian Parks
Mark Ramdeen
Tyrese Pierre
Jabari Graham,
Ronald Charles
Kalif Phillip
Kareem Walker
Tshad Selvon
Rawle Felix
Roger Williams
Kyrese Eugene
Trevin Thomas
Ronaldo Edwards
Kevon Edwards
Stephon Marcano
Denzil Smith
Revaldo Prince
Jabari Brice
Elijah Shade
Tyrel Emmanuel
Jodel Brown
judah garcia is good they say levi 's younger brother
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Rochford, Shade and Emmanuel for Digicel Barbados camp.
By Sean Nero (Guardian).
Emerging footballer John-Paul Rochford, 15, the brother of Central FC centre, midfielder Jean-Luc Rochford, is one of three teenagers heading to Barbados in October to participate in the Digicel (Football) Academy.
Rochford (John-Paul), a form four student at Queen’s Royal College, who plays at centre midfield, will join goal keeper Elijah Shade, 14, from St Anthony’s College and Tyrel Emmanuel, 16, from Shiva Boys College Hindu College at the one week training camp at which Barclays Premier League coaches from Chelsea FC would conduct training.
But Andre Raymond was awarded a wild card, which could only be activated if the national community headed to the programme’s Facebook page and vote for him, overwhelmingly.
From a field of 31 athletes who took part in the two-day clinic held at St Mary’s College Grounds on Serpentine Road in St Clair, Port-of-Spain, which ended Monday, the trio impressed former Chelsea player David Monk and his team.
Monk was the senior International Football Development Officer for the Chelsea FC Foundation and head coach of the Digicel Kick Start Clinics.
Rochford, a player of the sport for the past ten years, said he learnt about the programme from friends who came across further information on Facebook.
Of his selection, he said “I feel shocked! The feeling overall is very pleasing for my family and for me. I feel good.”
Shade, a Chelsea fan, expressed confidence that his school would be proud of his latest achievement.
Personally, he said, the feeling was a good. “I just want to thank Almighty God, and my father for being right there. Every step of the way. I want to thank God…put God first and apply myself.”
Emmanuel, a form four student and die-hard Chelsea fan, was glad he took his coach’s advice to participate in the clinic.
“It feels very good. I am very excited to be part of the Digicel Academy,” he said.
His recalled his mother’s reaction to news of his intended participation as one filed with excitement. He believed she would have another reason to cheer.
Monk lauded Digicel’s decision to bring Chelsea back to T&T.
“We go from island to island. We do a ten-island tour. Last year was 14. The year before that was eleven. Every year, the talent certainly gets better. Last year in Trinidad was an extremely difficult decision for us picking three players!
Anthony Herbert, one of the guys who came through to the Academy, was a wonderful ambassador to T&T. He really flew the flag high. We came back here this year. He set the bench mark very high and we expected the ability to be high. You guys have surpassed that.
You’ve really done yourselves proud. It’s a very difficult decision for us. It’s the only market we have visited in the three years that we felt that there are ten to eleven players who can possibly represent this country at the Academy,” said Monk.
He went on to express his team’s delight to work with athletes under the banner of the T&T Special Olympics Committee. This level of engagement, he said, was key to the work done at the Chelsea Foundation, where the outfit engaged the wider community.
Monk said, “Our Foundation, very much like (the) Digicel Foundation on a whole is about trying to encourage participation in sport in any ability or through any platform. For us to have that engagement and the opportunity to not just benefit 30 players, but to benefit everybody in the community is wonderful for us.”
Christopher Edmund, senior sponsorship officer at Digicel said the Digicel Kick Start Clinic had a fantastic start with interest shown from over 200 emerging footballers.
After the two-day coaching and trials, he said, comments received from the coaches were that footballers exhibiting skills were some of the best talent ever seen in the three years of the clinic.
Edmund described the clinic as a pivotal step for young footballers pursuing careers in sports. He went on to encourage those making the final cut to embrace the tenets of discipline on which the programme was conceptualised as they go further in their training as well as everyday life.
(http://www.guardian.co.tt/sites/default/files/field/image/John%20Paul%20Rochford.jpg)
CONGRATULATIONS: From left, goalkeeper Elijah Shade, John-Paul Rochford and Tyrel Emmanuel.
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Young 'ballers set for Man City move,
Jamaica Observer.
AT the end of the recently held Digicel Kickstart Academy at Sabina Park, three of the four Jamaican boys who participated in the programme were named among the top eight players.
As top players, Akeem Robotham, Alain Skerritt and Malik Powell will be jetting off to Manchester, England to receive further training at Manchester City FC, partners of the academy.
Robotham, an attacking midfielder from St George's College, said: "It was a great experience for me to work with top coaches from Man City. What the coaches have taught, I will definitely be putting it into play on the field.
"As for the trip to Man City, it's really a great feeling to know that 30 amazing boys came to the clinic (and) I was one of eight chosen."
Skeritt, who entered the camp as a wildcard, was equally pleased with his achievement. "The academy was intense, but it was good overall. It's a huge achievement to know I am a wildcard, and then to come out on top just motivates me to work even twice as hard," he said.
Technical director of coaching at City Football Schools, Andy Smith, said he was happy with the reports he has received on the academy.
"It's great to hear from our coaching team in Jamaica that the players taking part in Digicel's Kickstart Academy have responded well to our sessions and have shown both great ability and attitude. We look forward to welcoming the winners to Manchester and to seeing them play here at the City Football Academy facility in the near future," he said.
The other five players selected to attend the training camp with Manchester City FC are Charleus Talson (Haiti), Elysee Nael Wellofky (Haiti), Elihaj Shade (Trinidad and Tobago), John-Paul Rochford (Trinidad and Tobago), and Tyrell Emmanuel (Trinidad and Tobago).
The Digicel Kickstart Academy was held in association with the Manchester City FC and saw 30 of the best young footballers across the region receiving world-class training from the club's top youth coaches. The Academy was held at Sabina Park October 26-30.
(http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/assets/12343334/Digicel-KickStart-1.jpg)
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QRC’s Rochford trains at Manchester City camp.
By Sean Taylor (Express).
Experience of a lifetime
Queen's Royal College star midfielder John Paul Rochford, among two other local teenaged footballers, is currently at a training camp at the Manchester City Football Club in England which started a week ago.
The Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) is well-represented in the ongoing Manchester City youth football camp, as three Trinidadians Elijah Shade, Tyrel Emmanuel and John Paul Rochford were chosen among eight other outstanding athletes in the Digicel Kickstart Academy held in Sabina Park, Jamaica, last October.
Rochford was the main attraction in the QRC midfield in last year's SSFL, using his elusive feints, slide-rule passes and fearsome long-range shots to terrorise opposition defences all season in the league and InterCol. His most outstanding performance came in the clash against St Mary's College—a match many fans of schools football have dubbed "The Clasico".
(http://www.trinidadexpress.com/storyimage/TT/20160111/SPORTS/160119922/AR/0/AR-160119922.jpg)
MAN ON: QRC’s John Paul Rochford, left, tries to get past CIC’s Daniel Conocchiari during the Royalians’ 3-0 win at Serpentine Road during last season’s SSFL. He is currently training with the Manchester City Academy. –Photo: Anisto Alves
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Rochford soaks up ‘Manchester’ experience.
By Shaun Fuentes (TTFA).
National Under 17 midfielder John Paul Rochford is currently engaged in the biggest training stint of his career to date as he takes part in a two-week training camp at Manchester City after being selected by City scouts at a Digicel Kickstart Academy in November for Caribbean talents.
Rochford was chosen among other players including Jamaicans Akeem Robotham, Alain Skerritt and Malik Powell, Charleus Talson (Haiti), Elysee Nael Wellofky (Haiti) and Elijah Shade and Tyrell Emmanuel of T&T
“The camp is moving on quite well so far. The skill level and the intensity level is very high. The skill level is not the usual level. The ability of the guys here is very high and we are learning more everyday. It’s been quite a fulfilling experience” Rochford said on Wednesday.
“The camp is exciting because every day we are being shown new drills and learning different techniques,” he added.
Rochford, a product of FC Santa Rosa, indicated that the feedback from the Manchester coaches has been positive thus far.
“The coaches have told us that they are impressed with our ability and our attitude and they’ve really made us very comfortable since we’ve been here. The experience so far has been extremely good and will definitely contribute towards my development as a player,” said Rochford of Queen’s Royal College.
Rochford was initially selected from a group of thirty players at one of the Digicel Kickstart camp at Sabina Park, Jamaica in late October.
His older brother Jean Luc was a member of the T&T Under 17 and Under 20 teams which appeared at the 2007 FIFA Under 17 World Cup and the 2009 FIFA Under 20 World Cup in Egypt and has the distinction of scoring in the opening game of the finals against the host nation.
(http://ttfootball.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/rochfordbeckham.jpg)
An 8-year-old Rochford grabs the attention of former England captain David Beckham during a kid’s clinic at the then Concacaf Centre of Excellence in 2008.
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Digicel clinic kicks off this weekend.
T&T Express Reports.
The Digicel Kickstart Clinic will be making its return to Trinidad and hundreds of aspiring young footballers across the twin-island republic are set to participate in the pre-selection clinic which will be held at the Woodbrook Youth Facility from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Twenty-nine of the best players will be selected to participate in the Digicel Kickstart Clinic which will see coaches from Manchester City FC taking the players through intense training sessions that will test all aspects of their game.
The top three players from the Clinic will be selected by the coaches to attend the week-long Digicel Kickstart Academy to be held later this year.
At the end of the academy selected players will receive additional training from the Manchester City coaches at their facility in Manchester, England. “The Digicel Kickstart Clinic is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for aspiring young players to learn techniques that will take their game to the next level,” said Senior Sponsorship Officer Christopher Edmond.
“We are inviting players to try out for a chance to attend the Digicel Kickstart Clinic and, from there, you could be selected as one of three players to represent Trinidad and Tobago at the weeklong training session hosted by coaches from Manchester City.”
The Kickstart Clinic is now in its ninth year, and is a developmental programme which is providing the region’s most talented footballers, between the ages of 14-16, with an opportunity to be trained by international football coaches.
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Youths shortlisted for Kickstart Clinic.
T&T Express Reports.
Twenty-nine of the country’s top aspiring young footballers have made the shortlist of players from which the best-performing ones will earn the chance to attend the Digicel Kickstart Academy and train under coaches from English Premiership club Manchester City.
The youngsters, comprising 26 from Trinidad and three from Tobago, were adjudged the best from some 170 players who participated in the Kickstart pre-selection clinics that were held in both islands.
Screening took place earlier this month, simultaneously on the Fatima College grounds in Mucurapo and at Bon Accord, Tobago. At both locations, the young hopefuls worked under intense scrutiny to show their determination, skill, teamwork and passion for football. When it was over, the best were given the nod by the coaches from the Football Factory and the Tobago Football Association; the 29 will next participate in the Digicel Kickstart Clinic.
Digicel’s sponsorship manager, Christopher Edmond, said Digicel was excited to be hosting the Kickstart Clinic once again. “It gives the budding talent of our twin-island republic a chance to showcase their talents to coaches from Manchester City FC,” he said.
“From our pre-selection clinics in Trinidad and Tobago, we have selected the best of the best that will compete for the chance to represent their families, communities and countries at the Digicel Kickstart Academy.
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Good stuff. I wish them all good luck. This is a great chance for them
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I'm biased so.....Elijah Elliot is YOUR choice ;D BHS form 3 student and one of two players to play U14, U16 and U19 Divisions in SSFL last year. On top of all that....I'm in school coach :) So....
Like this youtube video and that's all he needs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pheSC-anqNU&feature=share (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pheSC-anqNU&feature=share)
Blessings (like the video) and enjoy the night and day tomorrow.
Just so you know, there are about 5 or 6 other wildcard nominees. I remain biased.
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I'm biased so.....Elijah Elliot is YOUR choice ;D BHS form 3 student and one of two players to play U14, U16 and U19 Divisions in SSFL last year. On top of all that....I'm in school coach :) So....
Like this youtube video and that's all he needs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pheSC-anqNU&feature=share (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pheSC-anqNU&feature=share)
Blessings (like the video) and enjoy the night and day tomorrow.
Just so you know, there are about 5 or 6 other wildcard nominees. I remain biased.
he looks strong/comfortable with the ball .... we need an under 14 program ...
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I'm biased so.....Elijah Elliot is YOUR choice ;D BHS form 3 student and one of two players to play U14, U16 and U19 Divisions in SSFL last year. On top of all that....I'm in school coach :) So....
Like this youtube video and that's all he needs.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pheSC-anqNU&feature=share (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pheSC-anqNU&feature=share)
Blessings (like the video) and enjoy the night and day tomorrow.
Just so you know, there are about 5 or 6 other wildcard nominees. I remain biased.
he looks strong/comfortable with the ball .... we need an under 14 program ...
he is currently training with the Tobago u15 team preparing to play games against the national team. They are pretty well prepared and hopefully a few of them can get serious consideration from the national coaching staff.
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The video we did for Oshun George a few years ago was way better 😀😀😀 Lets home he makes it......very talented youth.
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Trio selected from Kickstart Clinic.
T&T Express Reports.
Jodel Brown, Judah Garcia and Trevis Byron were the three Trinidadian youngsters selected to participate in the Digicel Academy which will give them the opportunity to be selected to train in England, at the Manchester City elite training and youth development facility.
The boys were selected at Digicel’s Kickstart Clinic at St Mary’s College ground Serpentine Road, St Clair, on Sunday. And the eager young players came out to impress the Manchester City FC coaches present.
“Without a doubt there are some talented young players in Trinidad and Tobago,” Lewis Childs, one of the City coaches said. “Their creativity and passion were visible throughout the practices as they endeavoured to impress us each and every day.”
The local trio will soon join other top players across the Caribbean and Central America at the week-long academy where they will receive another round of intensive training.
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Congrats to all. Continue to seize the moment
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Judah garcia and Jodel Brown both been selected for the training academy with Manchester City
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Judah garcia and Jodel Brown both been selected for the training academy with Manchester City
Congrats to both
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TT duo to train at Man City Football Academy.
T&T Newsday Reports.
TWO BUDDING Trinidad and Tobago football stars –Judah Garcia and Jodel Brown – were chosen from among the top 42 aspiring footballers from the Caribbean and Central America to visit the United Kingdom and train at one of the biggest clubs in the world - the City Football Academy in Manchester, England.
At City’s elite training and youth development facility the youngsters will have the opportunity to experience firsthand what it is like to train as a professional footballer in a competitive and high intensity environment.
The young Trini football stars along with Trevis Byron took part in the week-long Digicel Kickstart Academy recently held in Jamaica.
There they were challenged by the Manchester City coaches to fully absorb their training and impress them with their commitment to improving their game.
This year’s Digicel Kickstart programme, which began at the end of April and ended on June 24, provided the young footballers with the opportunity to not only sharpen their footballing skills and talents but to demonstrate a keen sense of character both on and off the pitch.
Brown of San Juan Jabloteh Football Club said, “I would like to thank Digicel for giving us this fantastic opportunity to train with world class football stars. I am eagerly looking forward to visiting the Manchester City Academy, meeting the famous players and absorbing all that there is to learn about football on the world stage.”
Garcia, a member of the Point Fortin Civic Football Club and who is a relative of Tyrel Emmanuel who, earlier this year, visited Manchester City as a Kickstart finalist, was still basking in the fantastic experience he had at the Academy.
“It was exciting to meet such very talented football players from the region. The going was tough, the pace was fast and the knowledge gained was priceless. I must thank Digicel for this extraordinary opportunity” he said.
He went on to state, “this experience has made me determined to become a professional footballer and I look forward to the visit to Manchester City where I hope to see a League game and meet many of the football stars of the Club.”
An elated Byron, who also attended the Kickstart Academy, said, “I would like to thank Digicel for giving young footballers the opportunity to attend the Academy.
It not only makes you realise what it takes to be a football great on the world stage but it allows you to make many friends from the region.
It was a wonderful experience.” The successful sportsmen all expressed their pleasure at the high standard of rigorous training received during the Kickstart Clinics and the Academy.
They said that although the competition was tough and other players were very talented indeed, it gave them a good idea of what life as a professional footballer would entail. Earlier this year, six of the top players from the 2015 Academy had the opportunity to train like a City player when they visited the Club’s training ground in Manchester.
They also attended a game between Manchester City and Everton where they witnessed City stars, including Raheem Sterling and Sergio Aguero, in action on the pitch.
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T&T Digicel Kickstart duo ready for Manchester camp
T&T Newsday
After the intense preselection, clinic and academy phases of the Digicel Kickstart programme, two youngsters from Trinidad and Tobago are closer to realising their football dreams. Jodel Brown and Judah Garcia will on October 19 travel to Manchester, England for an opportunity of a lifetime.
From the age of five, both young men decided to pursue a career in football and have since worked diligently at perfecting their chosen sport. Now at 15, Judah and Jodel were selected from among their peers locally, at the Kickstart Clinic and from across participating Digicel markets at the Digicel Academy, to attend a one-week training programme under the watchful eyes of Manchester City coaches.
Brown has been a member of the San Juan Jabloteh Football Club for 10 years and explained that “as a child football was something that was always in my blood”. Being inspired by Andreas Iniesta from Barcelona FC, he said “I look at this opportunity to visit the Manchester City Academy as a stepping stone in my football career, so my aim is to take what I will learn there to improve my football skills.” Garcia, a member of the Point Fortin Civic Football Club has been inspired by his family from a very young age. His older brother (Levi) is a professional player in Netherlands and another member of his family, Tyrel Emmanuel, was a 2015 Kickstart finalist who visited the Manchester Academy in January of this year. Lionel Messi of Barcelona FC is Garcia’s favourite footballer.
He sees Digicel Kickstart as a great opportunity to further his dream and career in football. He expects, from his Manchester City experience, to gain more knowledge from coaches in a top club which he believes would boost his confidence. He is also excited to pass on that knowledge to his peers locally.
The pair will join other successful candidates from the region in this year’s Kickstart Manchester experience at City’s elite training and youth development facility where they will experience first-hand what it entails to train as a professional footballer in a competitive and high intensity environment.
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WATCH: Day 2: Digicel Kickstart Manchester City Experience 2016
https://www.youtube.com/v/tXLID-iOtEs
WATCH: Day 3: Digicel Kickstart Manchester City Experience 2016
https://www.youtube.com/v/7VngELHU5fs
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WATCH: Day 4 - Digicel Kickstart Manchester City Experience 2016. The young footballers toured the Etihad Stadium and celebrated Judah Garcia’s birthday.
https://www.youtube.com/v/pD1BDGh7dSE
WATCH: Day 5 - Digicel Kickstart Manchester City Experience 2016. The boys meet Raheem Sterling. Hear from Jodel Brown about his experience thus far.
https://www.youtube.com/v/yerTA5kPVz0
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WATCH: Day 6 - Digicel Kickstart Manchester City Experience 2016. The final day of training.
https://www.youtube.com/v/fvlZq01SufE
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I like this, great experience and exposure for the youths, now they can set their sights on achieving a dream of playing at a top level. It's also good to see some of the City pros taking time to engage with them.
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WATCH: Day 7 - Final Day of the Digicel Kickstart Manchester City Experience 2016. The boys face off against Hopwood College.
https://www.youtube.com/v/gNL7R_xIsN8
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Garcia basks in Digicel Kickstart experience
By Jelani Beckles (T&T Newsday)
SHIVA Boys Hindu College footballer Judah Garcia said Manchester City midfielder Raheem Sterling was impressed with the talent in the Caribbean following the Digicel Kickstart Programme which took place in Manchester, England, recently.
Garcia was among 12 players from the Caribbean who worked with Manchester City Football Club coaches at the Digicel Kickstart Programme.
Garcia, the younger brother of national footballer Levi Garcia, was part of the Shiva Boys squad which won the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) Premier Division title by an unprecedented points margin this season.
Garcia and his teammates were invited to the Office of the President on Tuesday by President Anthony Carmona following their achievement.
Reflecting on his experience at the Digicel Kickstart Programme, Garcia said Sterling was left in awe by what he saw from the Caribbean players.
“He really was impressed with our performance because he came to some of our games and he was very impressed with the football in the Caribbean because he was born in Jamaica.” Garcia, whose favourite player is Lionel Messi, was grateful for the experience at Manchester, but said the chilly weather was difficult to manage.
“First, being selected was like a dream come true. It was hard to cope with the weather because it was very cold but it was a very great experience meeting professional players out there and I was just thankful for the experience out there.” Garcia and the other players from the Caribbean got the chance to attend an English Premier League match between Southampton and Manchester City and even got to greet the players before the match kicked off. Garcia also reminisced on the times when he would play football in the yard with his brothers, saying his father’s plants would pay the price. “My father has a lot of plants in the yard so everyday he would quarrel because it was four of us and we were always playing in the yard with a ball and we broke a lot of his plants.” President Carmona later praised Garcia for his accomplishments thus far, revealing that he had heard of his exploits prior to Shiva Boys’ triumphant SSFL campaign. He indicated that his barber in Fyzabad had informed him that there was a fella called Judah Garcia who was “acid”. Carmona declared, “Judah had trials at Man City which is something a lot of us just dream about and he is the dream, he is the real deal.”