Liverpool FC expand China coaching network with LFC International Academy Beijing
- LFC International Academy to coach children ‘the Liverpool way’ in Chinese capital and beyond
- Courses for under-16s to take place at Bird’s Nest Stadium once Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics are over
English Premier League giants Liverpool are the latest European club to expand their coaching network in China, with the launch of the LFC International Academy Beijing this week.
The Anfield club and partners Li Sheng announced the new youth coaching project with former Reds striker and academy ambassador Ian Rush sharing his excitement.
“We are extremely excited to be bringing the LFC International Academy to Beijing,” Rush said. “The curriculum is based on the LFC Academy philosophy and practices; with an active and educational programme, that will provide excellent opportunities for local players and coaches in China.”
The new project will deliver programmes in greater Beijing, neighbouring Tianjin and surrounding Hebei province, the club announced, where Chinese children aged five to 16 will be coached to play “the Liverpool way” as well as learning about life away from the pitch.
“The project’s mission is to develop the participants both on and off the pitch; encouraging them to get active and improve their football skills, whilst also improving important skills in everyday life, such as character, teamwork, confidence and integrity,” the club said in a statement.
This will take place across 30 football centres in and around the capital, with Li Sheng planning to build that many in the next five years, they said.