A total of 30 young footballers will participate in the St. Kitts leg of the 2012 Digicel Kick Start Clinic, coordinated by former Liverpool and England footballer, John Barnes, for a chance to spend a week at the academy of the European Champions, Chelsea F.C.
Barnes in a Press conference on Friday (17th August, 2012), praised the St. Kitts Nevis Football Association and Digicel for their youth development programmes instituted here in the country.
He further went on to say that ever since the implementation of the clinic, some 3 years ago, the quality of footballers hailing from St. Kitts has been of a high standard. he also made mention of the first two selectees from the federation, Devaughn Elliot and Gerard Williams, who are now fixtures in the St. Kitts and Nevis senior national team.
Barnes also hailed Digicel for conducting the program, which he says offers exposure of young Caribbean footballers, to international clubs.
Coach Barnes told the young participants present at the press conference that although they might be talented, to get selected they have to display the right attitude, discipline and hunger for the game.
He also commended the 30 footballers who were all on time for the press conference, stating that in development of the right attitude, discipline in time is the first step.
SKNFA President Anthony Johnson praised the partnership between his association and Digicel and urged the aspiring footballers to take this course seriously as it can lead to numerous opportunities for them.
Country Manager for Digicel Sean Latty shared similar sentiments to Johnson in encouraging the footballers to “work for it.”
He also warned them that they are not only here to learn about football, but life skills as well and he further urged them to set personal objectives.
The Digicel Kick Start Clinic will run for two days, 17th and 18th August, at the Newtown playing field.