Young star is going far
CHRISTIANO Ronaldo had better watch out, there is a new kid on the block – 11-year-old Bakier Salie.
The West End Primary School pupil will be attending a coaching clinic at the Benfica and Lisbon Academies in Portugal.
As part of an initiative of Northern Areas Football Association (NAFA), 130 players, officials, coaches and referees will be attending a coaching clinic at the academies during the July holidays next year.
The soccer prodigy, who was spotted by Swallows coach, Roy Mitchell, said he loved the game and couldn't wait to play against the best.
"While my family and I were camping at Schoenmakerskop this uncle approached my parents and said I was very talented in football. Since then I have been playing for Swallows and for the last three years I have been the top goal scorer for the club.
"I can't wait to go overseas. I'm excited to see a new country but I'm much more excited to play football against some of the best youngsters in the world," Bakier said.
Shireen Salie, the proud mother, said: "I would like to thank Nafa and Roy for giving my boy this opportunity. He started playing [soccer] at the age of seven and fell in love with the game. We as a family feel honoured to know that he has the potential to go far."
The tour, which will cost R21000 per person, will be a platform and an opportunity for the youngsters from Port Elizabeth to showcase their talent as scouts from various European academies will attend the clinic as well.
The group, which will include players from an under-12 level through to under-18 division, are all in need of funding.
Bakier Salie, who has travelled the country doing what he does so well, will be hoping to impress overseas.
The talented boy is one of the names to watch out for in future, you can help him by aiding his family with funds.
Should you want to open your heart and see a child's dream fulfilled, contact his mother Shireen Salie on 078-600-4511.