Chigoli football academy working towards international partnership
Lilongwe-based Chigoli football development organisation recently hosted a group of 19 students from San Francisco as part of its programme towards a global partnership with similar football academies.
Through football, the students from a French American International School in San Francisco shared cultural experience with their Malawian counterparts.
“The group had an amazing time here both interacting with Chigoli through training, matches, teaching and character development work as whilst travelling a stunningly beautiful country,” Chigoli academy said in its newsletter.
One student Kayva said he was touched by the people he talked to and their attitudes towards life.
“Malawi is an incredible country and the people inspired me,” Kayva said on the newsletter. “It is interesting to see how content the locals are with the life they live even though they live in a very poor country.
“I see so much anger in America towards others about money and power, but [in Malawi], they are so friendly and appreciate their community. I loved talking to the Chigoli players about their futures and goals, and was glad to see that some had the same as me,” Kavya said.
His colleague Evan thanked the organisers for making the trip possible.
“It was an eye opening experience. Being in such a humble and respectful country and playing soccer there will leave a lasting impression on who I am, who I will be, and who I want to be for the rest of my life,” Evan said.
The academy is also sourcing online global donations through ‘Paypal Donate,’ which is accessible through www.chigoli.org.
“We have recently launched a variety of small sponsorships (ranging from socks and balls) as a way for individuals to support the work of Chigoli. Additionally, there exist a number of corporate sponsorship options. We always welcome new partners and sponsors to help accelerate our mission and work,” the newsletter said.
At the pre-season friendly between two of TNM Super Leagueclubs, Silver Strikers and Mighty BeForward Wanderers, Chigoli was invited to play Kauma Sports Club as a curtain raiser.
The Under-14’s reportedly impressed the crowd with free-flowing football and some clinical finishing in which they won 7-0.
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