Reinforcing
their commitment to sporting development, Nike hosted renowned athletes from
Manchester City Football Club at an exclusive event that connected young
talented South African footballers with internationally renowned players at the
top of their professional game.
The
event, which formed part of Manchester City’s pre-season preparations and 2013
tour of South Africa, took place at the world class Nike Football Training
Centre located in the heart of Soweto, the hub of South African football.
The
young aspiring footballers were afforded a unique opportunity to gain insights
from the professional footballers – comprising of defenders Matija Nastasić,
Joleon Lescott and Micah Richards and midfielder, James Milner. The international players inspired the young
South Africans to become the very best footballers both on and off the field,
providing invaluable advice on how to enhance player performance and the
importance of maintaining a healthy balanced lifestyle off the pitch. Players also shared how innovation from
Nike’s performance apparel and footwear gives them the competitive edge.
Micah
Richards said on becoming a better footballer that, “Youth development
programmes are an important stepping stone to playing professionally one
day.” He concluded that, “talent alone
no longer is enough, desire and commitment are the most important attributes
for young footballers - if you are good enough you are good enough and you’ll
make it.”
A
master class training session featuring the Manchester City four-some also
prompted the young attendees to try their hand at besting their idols. This
session provided invaluable insight into the level of skill required to
participate at a professional level.
James
Milner said on being asked about the talent on the field, “I’ve seen some great
young players, their touch and control is impressive. I most enjoyed the fact that they all look so
keen to learn and experiment. As
players, we hope that visits like this further inspire these youngsters to be
great.”
Significantly,
Manchester City also took the opportunity to unveil a new club locker room at
the Nike Football Training Centre. The new locker room will sit alongside seven
other celebrated club-branded facilities including South Africa’s Kaizer Chiefs
and Mamelodi Sundowns, Italy’s Juventus and Corinthians from Brasil.
