The FCV International Football Academy, headed by former A-League coach Tony Walmsley of England, officially kicked in Mumbai and received a positive response with over 100 enthusiastic kids participating in the assessment trials on the opening day at the academy’s Mumbai base at the Lions Sports Complex, Milan Subway, Santacruz (West).
SRS Sports Director, Amit Desai (left) in conversation with MDFA President, Aditya Thackeray (centre) at the launch of the FCV International Football Academy in association with SRS Sports
Walmsley was assisted by experienced UEFA A licence holder and current Crystal Palace scout, Ian Sampson, who is FCV’s international development coach; SRS head coach Firmin D’Souza and assistant coach, Sudheesh Muttath.
MDFA President, Aditya Thackeray, inaugurated the Academy in the presence of Haden Spicer, First Secretary, International Trade and Investment, British Deputy High Commission, Mumbai and SRS Sports director, Amit Desai.
Speaking on the occasion Thackeray said “It’s an honour for me to open a world class football academy in Mumbai. I thank SRS Sports and FCV International Academy for this new venture which will help to develop football in the city of Mumbai. My best wishes to the FCV Academy and I believe that players from this academy will in a short time participate in the MDFA leagues.”
Spicer told the gathering that FCV International Academy is glad to to associated with SRS Sports in Mumbai. “Through this initiative FCV Academy will look to spot and develop talent and take them to the next level. We will ensure that we guide them in the right direction so later their talent can be recognized. It makes me happier to see a large number of kids turn up which show the enthusiasm for the sport and wish the kids the very best,” said Spicer.
Coach Walmsley will focus on developing the talents of Indian players, from Under-12s to Under-21s, through an established coaching curriculum that utilises best international practices.
Initially the coaching programme will operate six days a week, catering for the needs of both Development and Performance squads. Once established, advanced camps will be delivered across the region.