SKN Footballers Attend Digicel Kickstart Academy — Academy feature coaches from the Chelsea FC

BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS (November 2, 2012) -Three promising young footballers from St. Kitts and Nevis are currently attending the Digicel Kickstart Academy in Barbados, which they are describing as “one of the best opportunities so far as a young footballer.” Jamar Smith, Raheem Francis and Tahir Hanley, will receive top-class training from coaches of the Chelsea FC while at the Academy. The boys left the Federation on October 28th and will return on November 4th, accompanied by Deputy Director of Sports, Coach Jeffrey ‘Pedro’ Hazel.

(L-R) Coach Pedro, Tahir, Jamar & Raheem	Jamar during the Hot Shot Competition

The three boys were selected by England and Liverpool legend, John Barnes during the Digicel Kickstart Clinic, which was held in St. Kitts August17th-18th.Over the two days of the clinic 35 boys from St. Kitts and Nevis where they were put through skills and drills for the chance to win three spaces to the Academy.

Jamar, a 15 year old footballer from the Delphic Newtown United Team is very excited about being in Barbados. He says “it is going great! I have been able to learn a lot not only from the Chelsea Football Club coaches, but coaches and players around the region. Having gained this experience, I shall use it to develop my game as a player.”

Raheem during training	Tahir Hanley featured on Chelsea FC’s Facebook Page

Sixteen year old, Ram’s Village Superstars player, Raheem says, “For me, I have been given a taste of professional football life as it’s my goal to become a professional footballer. I will take back new things, especially in warm-up and technical aspects,”

“Working with my peers and the Chelsea coaches, I’ve been learning quite a lot. This would help me to continue building my overall game. I wish it could have been longer!” expressed Tahir, a 15 year old footballer with the UDC Garden Hotspurs. His exceptional football skills caught the eyes of the Chelsea FC coaches, Oliver “Olly” Woodall, Robert Udberg, David Monk, and has been featured on the Facebook Fan Page for Chelsea FC (https://www.facebook.com/ChelseaFC).

“Digicel wishes the boys much success while at the Digicel Kickstart Academy and we will continue to develop the sport of football across the region and specifically in St. Kitts and Nevis,” expressed Sean Latty, Country Manager for Digicel St. Kitts and Nevis.