Young local footballers were given a treat on the weekend by Atlantic through the likes of Kevin Ward and Eamon Mulvey, two skills development coaches from top English team, Manchester United. The duo participated in a three-day camp which was held at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo. The camp included some 25 boys and girls players from the recently concluded National Primary School Football League and District competition which were also sponsored by Atlantic. Mulvey and Ward urged T&T Primary Schools coaches to give their young players a chance to express themselves on the field.
Mulvey insisted that coaches, who only focus on winning, are not giving players a chance to develop.
He intimated, "Coaching is not all about winning, it's about developing the player to love the game and understand his/her strengths and weaknesses." The Manchester United official told local coaches that great players are made when talent is recognised at a young age, and personal development and self confidence were instilled. "The golden age of developing a good footballer is between six and 12. At this age, coaches must train their player to have a positive mindset and not be afraid of taking risks at times," Mulvey noted. Ward insisted that at the developmental level that "winning isn't everything, but striving to win is."
Local coach and camp director, Kelvin Nancoo was very happy that the Manchester United coaches were on hand to share their knowledge on youth development. Nancoo stated, "This is a dream come true for our young footballers and the Primary Schools League. This was an opportunity which our young players grasped with both hands. I must say, this is a very talented group of players who no doubt, if handled positively, will bring glory to our country." Nancoo thanked Atlantic, the sponsor, for being supportive of the sport and extended his appreciation to marketing managers, Derek Daniel and Anil Seunath. The weekend camp was specifically designed for the local coaches to look at prospective talent for the national boys and girls U-14 teams for selection next month.