Chance for Ugandan youngsters to experience the United way

Tim Hunt emphasizes a point during an interview with SCORE. Photo by JB SENKUBUGE

KAMPALA.

Are you between ages eight and 17 (boys), 12 to 17 (girls), and interested in football? You could find yourself part of a two week Manchester United Soccer Schools (MUSS) residential camp in England.
And no, you do not have to be an astute footballer. You just have to have the desire, for the training does more than just football.

To that effect, MUSS are on a recruitment drive to have young boys and girls from all around the world to experience “the most wonderful times of their lives.”

Tim Hunt, managing director of World Student Advisers - the company contracted by Manchester United to oversee recruitment in the sub-Saharan Africa, has been to Tanzania, and is in Kampala before he connects to Nairobi on Monday.

“It is an experience of a life-time,” Hunt, told SCORE, “That will live with them forever, an opportunity not to be missed.
“In the morning students receive football coaching from the world-famous Manchester United Soccer Schools.

“No matter what their ability, they undergo a comprehensive course covering technique, tactics, physical, mental and social elements of the game, in a fun and friendly atmosphere. Our students never forget learning to play the United Way.”

Basically, you could be a footballer, or you may not. The whole experience is meant to teach you life beyond football on the pitch, to give you a wider look at the whole industry which includes media, fans, coaching, agents and management among others. “By the way, I want to make it clear that this is not a scouting program for potential footballers for Manchester United, but you never know if you impress the coaches.

“The program will impart life skills on the kids and the industry is so big. We train them in a way that they can succeed outside football but still within the industry.”

Prospective candidates will pay £2,700 for the two-week course, which covers Airport transfers from London or Manchester, accommodation and meals, tour of Old Trafford and interacting with United stars, and visit to Alton Towers theme park. It, however, does not include flights and the cost of your visa.

Among activities organised by professional coaches and highly qualified personnel during the two weeks include football coaching seminars, pool, table tennis, swimming and outdoor tennis.

After dinner the students are encouraged to meet other young people from all over the world, socializing and meeting people from a wide variety of cultures, a tremendous opportunity to develop social and interpersonal skills.