Footballers from the La Foucade Soccer Coaching School (LFSCS) will campaign in the youth divisions of the Pro League this year.
LFSCS director, experienced youth coach Dion La Foucade, will enter players from his coaching school in the League, which kicks off in March, with under-14 and under-16 teams playing under Police FC’s professional team, while the under-18s will line up for FC South End.
The club will host separate screening sessions for the three age groups on Saturday at St Joseph Convent’s Federation Park, St Clair football ground. The first session for the under-14s starts at 12 noon, while the under-16 and under-18 sessions begin at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. respectively.
La Foucade said yesterday the move is another step in the direction of player development.
’The kids have been leaving the school to play for many other (League) clubs,’ the former National Under-17 coach explained, ’but we’ve decided we’re going to train the players and also develop the whole person, looking at a more holistic approach.
’I think that is lacking with a lot of the teams, who look at just the football aspect.’
According to La Foucade, this is a long-term move for his club, and the footballers’ parents, he said, are excited about it. He also plans to impress upon his young charges the important role of education alongside football.
’I have coaches who call me for scholarships, but you have to make sure they have their academics intact,’ La Foucade said.