NATIONAL Soccer League leader Nadi Football Association has been boosted with the launching of its youth academy over the weekend.
Association vice president Javed Ahmed said the academy started instructional soccer clinics for girls and boys every Saturdays starting last weekend at Nadi Muslim Primary School.
He said the association was pleased with the turnout from aspiring soccer dreamers.
"We had a turnout of more than 60 kids from the age of 5 to 14 for the first session on Saturday and it was very successful," said Ahmed.
"The youth soccer clinics will be held every Saturday and our future soccer players will learn the essentials of key soccer skills like dribbling, passing and shooting.
He said the objective of the academy was to develop players for the future and the training program was designed in conjunction with the Spanish and Dutch soccer coaching system.
"These clinics will rapidly advance the skills of young players and allow them to develop the most important elements of youth soccer in professional environment."
"We are very grateful to Nadi Muslim School for allowing the academy to use the grounds and excellent facilities.
"The academy expects more than 100 youths from this weekend and we are grateful to Bella Thomas for coming forward and supporting this initiative.
"The academy plans to kick off the junior league in 4 age-groups from April and ensure all junior players are equipped with uniforms and essential playing gear."
Ahmed added that Nadi FA head coach Kamal Swamy was very impressed by the skill level of some of the youths and is excited to be part of this great initiative from Nadi Football Association.
Those interested in the academy can contact Nadi soccer officials on email address academy@nadifootball.com or call 6705707.