Coaches First is set to launch a new initiative to entice Asian youngsters to take up the game.
In a move which mirrors the search for Asian talent at Chelsea FC which is being spearheaded by Nicolas Anelka, Hanwell FA Coach Dhiren Shah is starting up Asian Soccer Stars, an Asian soccer school, on Monday 11 May.
Dhiren explained: "We already work with the whole community in Ealing at Hanwell Soccer School but feel that Asian kids are reluctant to come forward and we want to change that.
"Maybe because there are no role models for them in the game, but we believe many of them are possibly shy and do not get enough encouragement from their parents, who would prefer them to play cricket or study.
"We want to specifically target Asian kids who want to come to school where they feel at home and at ease and also nurture and develop their talents."
The new soccer school, which has backing from the Middlesex FA and Kick It Out, is targeting boys and girls aged four to 12, who will be invited to play on the artificial pitches at Brentside High School, Greenford Avenue, Hanwell, on Mondays (7.30pm-8.30pm).
Sessions cost £5. For further details phone Dhiren Shah 07958409055 or email info@coachesfirst.co.uk
A poster for the school can be seen by clicking here.
