Local soccer legend Leslie Santos is determined to develop the 'beautiful game' in Hong Kong through his academy which was established in 2005.
Santos Soccer Training Limited teamed up with The Boys' & Girls' Clubs Association of Hong Kong last month to launch a free football training programme for children from low-income families.
It kicked off at Kowloon Bay Recreation Ground on August 26. A total of 22 participants aged 12 to 15 were selected for the six-month programme.
Santos, a former star midfield player, said: 'Every kid has their own potential. I hope through playing soccer they will be able to participate in sports and learn to develop their inter-personal skills and discipline.
'I am totally committed to teaching the best skills to the participants. I believe they are very talented and I am always ready to provide further training for children with potential. It would be excellent if I can nurture one or two kids to play for local First Division teams.'
The association's corporate communications officer, Francis Ma Kwok-leung, said the participants must finish the six-month training programme and have a passion for soccer.
