Kids from Connecticut are getting a chance to wow international soccer coaches this summer.
“I love it here, so I wanted the opportunity to play soccer here,” said Sofia Perez of Wethersfield.
“When you play football it takes a lot of dedication and a lot of hard work,” Hartford's Leon Cooley said.
They are two of dozens of players taking part in La Liga's free soccer camp in Windsor.
This is a week of free training for young Hispanic and Latino soccer players, where they will learn from and compete in front of LaLiga coaches.
La Liga is Spain's top professional soccer league and is home to teams such as Real Madrid and FC Barcelona.
“We are here to support them and help them reach the next level,” La Liga coach Nil Font said.
Font said he teaches Spanish soccer methodology to kids in Connecticut, with an emphasis on soccer elements such as controlled passing and one-on-one play.
“This tactic is characterised by playing short distances, progressing slowly and eventually scoring a goal,” Font said.
“You can learn from coaches who have played at a higher level overseas,” Cooley said.
On Friday, two children selected by the coaching staff will travel to Spain for free, after which they will train at La Liga facilities and watch live matches.
“If I can play to their standard, hopefully I'll be recognized and one day I'll be able to compete with the best,” Cooley said.
For some, this is an opportunity to align with their wildest dreams.
“I want to win the Women's World Cup and go to Real Madrid,” Perez said.
