KICK It Christmas Football Camp has gained traction in Jamaica and its convenors believe the unique blend of functional football training is driving its popularity.

Key to the clinics also are motivation techniques, lifeskills education and the partnership with the Jamaica Chess Federation aimed at achieving guidance in logic and versed decision-making skills for the youngsters.

However, having the opportunity to participate in such an exceptional mix of training is not affordable to all so for a second year, cellphone giant Claro gave such 30 children the opportunity to participate in the winter camp, who otherwise would not have been able to partake in such a sport-education adventure.

“It goes without saying that the future is dependent upon the success and the holistic growth of our children,” says Andrew Balbour, events and promotions manager for Claro. “Kick It offers such an opportunity for development,” he added.

The Jamaica Grassroots Football Company, who organises the annual camp, has assembled a proficient and intensive training programme for children between the ages of five and 16 years. The team includes Jamaica Grassroots Football Company CEO, Wolde Harris, Reggae Boyz Khari Stephenson and Shavar Thomas, with contribution from Allan ‘Skill’ Cole, Russell ‘Dos’ Bell, Ossie Kerr and Trevor ‘Jumpy’ Harris.

Kick it Christmas Football camp is in its second year and will be staged annually at the NWC Football field in Mona.