Local children in Sal learned the tricks of the trade from beach soccer stars over the weekend.
The Sal Beach Soccer Cup not only offered great entertainment to the people of Cape Verde, the inaugural competition also saw local children attend a beach soccer clinic with stars of the tournament this weekend.
The island of Sal played host to the four-team competition between Friday and Sunday as Portugal finished clear of Spain, England and Cape Verde to life the title.
But, in between the thrilling action on the sand, young Cape Verde children were offered a once in a lifetime opportunity to learn the sport first hand from players from Spain, England and Portugal.
Leo Martins of Portugal was joined by English pair Terry Bowes and David Jones as well as Dona and Llorenc from Spain to help guide the youngsters, many coming from difficult and underprivileged backgrounds, through the basics of the sport.
The children came from charity groups Nos Kasa, Caritas and Castelos do Sal – all of whom do important work in the area – and all enjoyed the experience immensely.
Beach Soccer Worldwide vice-president Joan Cusco was also in attendance as The Beach Soccer Foundation once again demonstrated its commitment to good causes close to the sport.
“The clinic was a really positive experience both for the kids and the players who helped out, everybody had a great time” said the vice-president.
“The children learned all about the sport from some of the best players in the game. They got in direct contact with beach soccer. It’s part of what the Foundation is all about.”