Youngsters enjoy soccer clinic with British coaches at Old Parks

BORDEAUX – Coaches from English Premier League side train youngsters at Old Parks.

Seth McLoughlin and Ryan Billingham vie for possession during a match at the soccer clinic. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

Young soccer stars had a blast training with three coaches from the United Kingdom at Old Parks Soccer Club.

The coaches were visiting in their personal capacity and were not officially representing West Bromwich Albion FC and Oxford FC, where they work.

British coaches Dave Lawrence (blue shirt), Ryan Maye (red shirt) and Calvin Maye (grey shirt) have a blast with children at the soccer clinic. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

The players went through dribbling, turning and passing techniques at the club in Bordeaux on 10 August before a miniature Champions League was held. Here, players separated into small teams representing Europe’s best and played in a tournament to demonstrate their newfound skills.

“I learnt how to open space and find passes,” said David Onunda (9) of the clinic.

Angelo Deaguiar (13) said he got to know his fellow teammates and improved his soccer tactics and skills.

Matthew Moreira (13) added, “We saw there is more to soccer than just goals. We did unusual drills that helped build our plays. It was a great experience.”

Ryan Billingham is unable to stop a penalty during a match at the soccer clinic. Photo: Nicholas Zaal

West Brom’s head of coaching, Ryan Maye, The Albion Foundation sports development manager, Dave Lawrence, and Oxford United FC U16 Boys Academy coach, Calvin Maye said they came out while on leave to impart knowledge to the youngsters, and improve themselves as coaches by working in different environments.

“For children this age it is all about having as much fun as possible while playing,” said Ryan. “If you have fun and fall in love with the game you will get better and enjoy it at the same time.”