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Soccer legend Lee Sharpe was in Bahrain this week to kick-start VIVA Bahrain’s bid to offer another chance of a lifetime to Bahrain’s young footballers and to make their dreams true.
The former Manchester United and England winger touched down in the kingdom to help launch a second soccer school programme as part of the telecom company’s partnership with the English Premiership giants.
Sharpe said at a press conference yesterday: "I’m delighted to be in Bahrain and looking forward to seeing the talent that is developed at the Manchester United Soccer School. I am also happy to be part of a programme that is focused on developing local talent. I believe Bahrain has much to offer and I’m excited to see the young footballers."
In total 120 footballers will be selected by local coaches certified by the Bahrain Football Association in try-outs that will take place at the association’s training pitches before getting a chance to demonstrate their skills in front of Manchester United Soccer School (MUSS) coaches who will fly into Bahrain to evaluate them on June 8-9 and select 18 players.
The soccer starlets of the VIVA MUSS 2012 programme will be offered the opportunity to be coached by UEFA-certified coaches and receive the full unique ‘Manchester United experience’ by living on campus in Myerscough College, UK, with 30 other footballers from the UAE and Kuwait as part of the regional initiative by the STC Group involving young football enthusiasts.
Ulaiyan Al Wetaid, VIVA CEO, said: "We are delighted to bring back the VIVA Manchester United Soccer School Programme and help make the dreams of young Bahraini footballers come true. It is our mission to make a positive impact in the local community."
To have a chance of becoming one of the chosen 18, young footballers, male and female, aged between 12-15 and a resident of Bahrain, must first register at the VIVA Manchester United Zone at Bahrain City Centre from May 9-20.
For more information on the VIVA Manchester United Soccer School 2012 programme, visit the VIVA Bahrain website www.viva.com.bh
