Manchester United Soccer Schools back in HK

After the success of last year’s inaugural programme in Hong Kong, Manchester United Soccer Schools and presenting sponsors and official airline Cathay Pacific Airways announced the 2005/2006 program at a press conference the Hong Kong Football Club.

From October 2005 through to March 2006, MUSS will provide the opportunity for aspiring young soccer players in Hong Kong to work with coaches from Manchester United. HKFC will once again be the venue for the 20-week program featuring boys and girls between the ages of 8-15. The coaching staff will be headed by former Man U and England full back Mick Duxbury together with MUSS coach Mick Wild from the UK and selected local Hong Kong coaches.

Man U confirmed their long term commitment to MUSS in Hong Kong with the attendance of former captain and player Eric Cantona, together with Manchester United Football Club Academy Director Les Kershaw, MUSS Head Coach John Shiels, MUFC Skills Director Rene Meulensteen and Hong Kong Director of Coaching Mick Duxbury.

The MUSS coaching programme includes both the basic and advanced skills that a youngster would learn if attending the Manchester United Youth Academy. More than 500 children in Hong Kong will benefit from this coaching over the 6 month period.

“Here at Manchester United we place great emphasis on our youth players," Manchester United Manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, said. "Through our soccer schools we can take our philosophy on developing young players around the world. We are aware that we enjoy huge support in Hong Kong and due to the success of last year’s programme, it is our pleasure to be returning to Hong Kong to once again help develop Asia’s talent. We believe that the soccer school will provide children – whether fans of Manchester United or not – with the benefit of coaching the Manchester United way.”

Charlie Stewart-Cox, General Manager Marketing, Cathay Pacific Airways, announced the sponsorship of 30 scholarships to the local Hong Kong community for young soccer fans to also benefit from the coaches of the world’s biggest football club”

Application forms for MUSS are now available from Nike stores, HKFC and the MUSS website.