Day one of Soccer Fun - returning Coach Luther Blisett, Sr. Coach Jamie Godbold, camp sponsor Sir Jack Hayward, and returning Coach Phil French. Photo: Stuart Garner

Grand Bahama Island - It has been non-stop fun for the almost 200 excited local children who signed up for the five-day Grand Bahama EPL Soccer Camp

The senior coaches from the UK, Jamie Godbold, Phil French and former international player Jamaican-born Luther Blissett, brought with them a whole range of new training techniques and as well as skill-enhancing games to play.

They were supported by a team of around 20 volunteer local coaches, some of whom are graduates of former camps who now help at the girls’ and boys’ development leagues on the island.   Lots of the children attending were also veterans of earlier events and the visiting coaches were very impressed with what they saw.

Team leader Phil French said:   “It was so great seeing so many happy and familiar faces.   We have been able to renew so many friendships – and the skill level since my first visit five years ago has improved immeasurably.

“We have also been impressed by the welcome we have had from Grand Bahama residents.   An example of this was yesterday when the coaches took a taxi to the ground and the lady driver would not charge us a fare when she learned we were here to help the children.

VIP guest on Monday was Sir Jack Hayward, who is the camp’s main sponsor, and he was impressed too.   He is also a good judge having been chairman of Wolverhampton Wanderers, the legendary UK pro team.   “It is great to see so many children having such a good time and to see such a well-organised event,” he said.

The children get five days of professional-level coaching, totaling 25 hours in all, as well as lunch, fruit and refreshments each day; two full sets of uniforms; and a cooling lunchtime swim.

Camp Organiser Richard Malcolm said: “Sir Jack again demonstrated his great generosity to causes on the island and was by far the biggest sponsor of the camp this year. We were delighted to welcome him to the camp.

“The camp is now established as a premier children’s event and the outpouring of goodwill for it has been heartwarming this year.   The kids have so much fun and some of their parents, who recognize the benefit they get, have been profuse in their thanks.

“We would like to thank the many people who have helped us this year. Examples of this are the local businesses and private individuals who have weighed in with donations helping give more than 30 deserving children free places.”

The event, being held at Freeport Rugby and Football Club, ends early afternoon Friday with the award of trophies.