Aspiring football stars Brian Burkett and Ronaldo Clarke were left beaming with pride and excitement after finishing tops in their respective age groups when given an Ultimate Football Experience by telecommunications firm FLOW on Saturday.

Burkett, who was the champion boy in the 12-13 age group, and Clarke, who won in the 14-16 category, were selected from well over 100 participants, including four females who were on show at Ballaz Liberty Park on Saturday.

The day’s session for the young players was sweetened by the presence of Manchester United Legend Denis Irwin, who was on hand to offer encouraging words and advice to the rising stars.

The initiative, which saw the participants compete in challenges that tested their skills in short passing, dribbling, defensive qualities, teamwork, attitude and finishing, is a part of the growing partnership between FLOW and Manchester United Football Club.

The skills were all taken from the Old Trafford club’s Soccer Schools’ programme and local coaches were asked to evaluate and rank each player throughout the day.

After the scores were tallied, both Burkett and Clarke were crowned champions and will next travel to Trinidad and Tobago where they will compete in a final weekend of skills and small-sided games.

The players will be accompanied by their coaches and a parent to the twin island republic.

In addition to a one-on-one training with Manchester United Soccer School Coaches, the players will also compete with the finalists from 14 other countries for the chance to be one of two players to win a once-in-a-lifetime VIP trip to Old Trafford in Manchester, England. The coaches of the winning players will also attend the game.

Though an ardent Barcelona and Chelsea fan, Burkett, 12, has his sights set on making the coveted trip to Old Trafford.

“I am feeling very elated, so much so that I don’t know how to explain it. My aim was to come here and do my best and no matter what, never get disappointed but take it with a smile.

“My fellow teammate Romario Willis, who was the champion from last year, he gave me some advice, so I am trying to follow in his footsteps. So I am looking forward to going up there and go to Old Trafford,” the St George’s College student told the Jamaica Observer.

For 15-year-old Clarke the achievement has brought him one step closer to realising his dream – to become a professional player.

Interestingly, the Camperdown High School student, who plays at Harbour View under youth coach Davion Ferguson, is the brother of National female player Sherice Clarke.

“It was a rough day and the competition level was high, but I worked for it and I am super happy that I won. My mother, who died, has always been my motivation because before she died she told me that I must chase my dream which is to become professional footballer.

“So I just want to go out there (in Trinidad) and do my best, be disciplined and work hard so that I can become a better footballer out of it. If I get selected to go to Old Trafford, then that will be a bonus for me,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Irwin, who made over 500 appearances for Manchester United, wished all the participants well in their future endeavours.

“Obviously there are a lot of young girls and boys disappointed, but that is a part of life, hopefully they will learn from the experience and move forward.

“But I wish the winners well, they will go on and compete against other Caribbean countries for a chance to go to Manchester United, so the whole project is really good and if anything can help to improve football in the Caribbean, this is it,” the Irishman, who enjoyed a decorated career.