KOCHI:
Aiming to nurture young football prodigies in goal-keeping, Kerala Blasters Football Club is all set to launch the first of its kind Goalkeeping Academy in India, at Kochi. Former English Goalkeeper John Burridge will identify and train the best talents in the category.
According to KBFC officials, the academy is aimed at sharpening Goalkeeping skills of young and talented football enthusiasts. This will also include International exposure. The focus will initially be on the Senior team and the Reserves and later extended to the Youth.
“Being a Goal-Keeper requires a specific set of skills and attributes. This calls for a specialised coaching approach. Our aim is to churn young Indian talent to become the best and most sought after keepers in the world. We have already started scouting a few players with the right physical attributes and skill set to initiate the academy. With the experience and prowess that John brings to the table, he will be an undisputed consultant-coach for the academy.” says Viren D’Silva, CEO, KBFC.
Coach Burridge comes with an experience of playing 771 games in both English and Scottish leagues. Over 29 years in the industry, Burridge has made appearance for 31 different teams.
“I am totally impressed by Kerala’s enthusiasm for this sport. I am sure this place would be a talent pool for football. We plan to train youngsters in goal-keeping and hope to carve a next generation of goalkeepers for Kerala and India,” said John Burridge.
