AC Milan, one of the most iconic football clubs in the world, will run a junior camp in Jaffna next year, marking a groundbreaking moment for the homeland's sports landscape.
The Milan Junior Camp project, which aims to bring world-class football training to young athletes, will be held in Colombo, Galle, and Jaffna, offering an opportunity for aspiring footballers to impress international scouts. This is the first time a club of AC Milan's stature will hold such an event on the island
The program will provide young athletes, both boys and girls, between the ages of 5 and 17 with access to a unique football experience based on the world-renowned 'AC Milan Method'.
"This project, born from the collaboration between AC Milan and the Colombo Athletic & Football Club, promotes the passion for football and the expansion of the AC Milan Method in new countries," said Franco Baresi, Honorary Vice President of AC Milan. "We are always very proud and excited to offer new opportunities to young aspiring male and female footballers around the world, and with the arrival of the Milan Junior Camp in Sri Lanka, we aim to continue spreading the Rossoneri values globally."
The arrival of AC Milan in Jaffna is especially significant. The North-East, long impacted by conflict and developmental neglect, have had little access to international sporting opportunities. In these regions, young people have historically faced limited avenues to develop athletic talents and engage in recreational activities. However, this new initiative brings hope to these communities, offering children in Jaffna the chance to learn from some of the finest coaches in football.
Ajai Vir Singh, the President of Colombo Athletic and Football Club, emphasized the program's transformative potential. "This is the start of a new era of football and sports education in Sri Lanka. AC Milan brings their heritage of 125 years and their success story in the form of a holistic training structure for our next generation here in Sri Lanka. This will open doors for boys and girls 5-to-17 years to reach their fullest potential."
Participants will receive tailored guidance that includes physical training, mental health support, nutrition, and strength training. As part of the launch, a workshop will also be held for local coaches and stakeholders to receive technical training from certified AC Milan coaches, setting the stage for sustainable sports development in Sri Lanka.
Damiano Francovigh, the Ambassador of Italy to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, highlighted the diplomatic and cultural significance of this initiative, saying, "We are very excited to see AC Milan, one of the most important and successful Italian football teams ever, opening Junior Camps in Sri Lanka. We are confident that this will turn out to be not only a very good opportunity for local youngsters to improve their football skills, but also one more important bond of friendship and cooperation between Italy and Sri Lanka."
The camp will kick off on January 21, 2025, starting with the coaches' workshop and continuing with training for the young athletes.
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