Youngsters gear up for trip of a lifetime

Members of the Simsport Eagles preparing for their trip to Bolton Wanderers Football Club in England, for a week-long training camp, later this month.

Picture: Fuad Esack

The players were selected as part of the Simsport Eagles squad that will attend a week-long training session with the English Football League championship.

Simsport Eagles coach, Sameeh McLaurie said a trip like this can change their attitude towards life.

“All of them have a bright future ahead of them when it comes to sports and education.

“They are willing to learn, not everyone will make it, that is the reality of life, but they are eager for everything and I’m happy, I can only wish them the best,” he said.

Last Monday, the three youngsters played a friendly match against FC Kapstadt’s under-16 team at Hartleyvale, in Observatory. McLaurie said the average age for his squad is 15.

“They are very young. It’s very important when it comes to their age to play against older teams. It keeps them away from bad habits.

“Our opposition is going to be much taller and much more built (in England) so playing against boys that are much older will help them to develop more,” he said.

“We had a training camp at the weekend with two sessions, so they can get to know each other better.

“We also teach life skills and have educational programmes because you can get injured on the field and you need education,” he said.

McLaurie said they will leave for Bolton Wanderers on August 29 for a seven-day training camp.

He said they will also watch Bolton Wanderers at the Macron Stadium on September 6, and they will visit either Old Trafford or Anfield.

“They will receive professional level training and will use all the facilities at Bolton,” he said.

If you’d like to help them raise funds, call Sameeh McLaurie 071 351 3102.