FORMER Barcelona youth players and UEFA-licensed coaches, Xavier Beranuy Gilt and Aitor Bueno Gil, have expressed their admiration for the talent displayed by young players at the One Tanzanite Football Academy during a seven-day training camp at Kunduchi's NDC ground.

The coaches, in collaboration with One Tanzanite Football Academy, trained the youth players in techniques, tactics, possession, recovery, and various other technical aspects of football.

Speaking after the training session, Gilt remarked that they had witnessed talented players who, with continued effort and dedication, could become the backbone of Tanzanian football in the near future. 

"For all seven days, I have been busy and happy training with these talented players. They have great potential, not only for clubs but also for national teams, if they continue to make and maintain efforts in the game," said Gilt.

Gil echoed Gilt's sentiments and commended the leadership of the academy for their initiative, which also benefits the community.

One Tanzanite Football Academy managing director, Agapiti Manday, praised the coaches for their exceptional training and extended an invitation for them to return for future sessions. 

Manday highlighted that over 95 percent of the enrolled players come from less privileged families, relying on the academy for equipment and transport to and from the training pitches.

He explained that the academy was established with the vision of providing a structured and professional environment for young football enthusiasts in Tanzania. The academy aims to develop the next generation of football stars who can compete on national and international stages.

"With experienced coaches, we are committed to offering high-quality training and mentorship to our young football players. Our objectives include identifying and nurturing young talent across the country, providing them with the necessary skills and opportunities to excel in the sport.

“We also focus on holistic development, combining football training with academic education and character building, while fostering a sense of community and encouraging active participation in outreach programs," said Manday.

He added that the establishment of the academy is expected to have a significant impact on both the sports sector and the broader community by providing a platform for young talent to thrive.

He further explained that the academy's goals include enhancing the quality of football in Tanzania by developing well-trained and skilled players who can compete at higher levels, particularly as the country prepares for Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in 2027.

The academy also promotes healthy living by encouraging physical activity and healthy lifestyles among the youth, contributing to the overall well-being of society.

"We also aim to create economic growth and job opportunities through sports-related activities and events, while instilling values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance," said Manday.

He expressed full support for the Tanzanian government's efforts, led by President Samia Hassan Suluhu, in investing in sports-related activities as the country prepares to host Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals in 2027.

"As expected, players from the academy will also benefit from the facilities that the government is constructing for AFCON 2027 and will help raise the Tanzanian flag high," he added.

He also acknowledged the support of camp sponsors such as Airtel Tanzania, CRDB Foundation, NCBA Bank Tanzania, ASAS Group, and GSM Group in their efforts to support the community and assist families from less privileged backgrounds.