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Dutch coaches teach football in Wenjiang

Two football coaches from the Netherlands have begun teaching primary school students in Wenjiang district in Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province, on Jan 12, as a part of a government initiative.

Vannjn Marco and Liebrom are both class-A football coaches by the Union of European Football Association (UEFA). They were invited by the Wenjiang Football Association to teach pupils European football techniques, such as ball control and defending.

First to kick off were girls from Hesheng Primary and boys from Wanchun Primary. All the training classes are to be held either before or after school.

“We are not working to cultivate professional football players. We just want children who are interested in this sport to learn more football skills and have fun,” said Vannjn. “Also, we hope to improve their social skills and team spirit.”

China’s central authorities unveiled a football reform plan in March 2015, to promote the development of the game around the country, especially in schools.

Chengdu, one of the pilot cities for the football reform, has been working on promoting football in primary and secondary schools. As well as encouraging students to play, the city has also improved the quality of facilities.

Local PE teachers now have access to professional football training and many foreign coaches have been invited to train students.

Vannjn Marco instructs kids on the training ground on Jan 12. [Photo/wjnews.com.cn]

Vannjn Marco and Liebrom demonstrate their football skills for pupils. [Photo/wjnews.com.cn]

By Shi Zihan and edited by Owen Fishwick