As Kitara Football Club gears up to host trials for young football talents for its junior team, Samuel Adibo, the head coach of the U17 team, has shed more light on the the exercise.
The trials will take place from Friday, December 13, to Sunday, December 15, at Booma Grounds in Hoima City, and will target young players below the age of 17.
During an exclusive interview with NBS Sport, Adibo emphasized that the trials are aimed at offering youngsters chance to showcase their skills and earn a spot on the club’s U17 team, which competes in the FUFA Juniors League.
“These trials are aimed at giving an opportunity to the young players. The ones that will qualify will be given a chance to feature on our U17 team,” Adibo explained.
The trials are open to everyone who meets the criteria, but Adibo highlighted the specific age and physical requirements the club is targeting.
“The door is open for everyone that feels they have the talent. However, we are targeting the age groups of 14, 15, and 16. Besides age, we are also looking at other things like weight. We are looking at kids that fit in the right weight,” he said.
Adibo elaborated on the selection process, outlining the key attributes they will be assessing.
“The selection process will base on the talent of the child, discipline showcased, and also their love and passion for football,” he added.
According to Adibo, the trials, which span three days, will require parents to support their children by covering basic necessities during the event.
“The parents of the children will be expected to facilitate their children with food, transport, and accommodation during the trials,” Adibo stated.
However, for those who make the cut, the club will take full responsibility moving forward.
“Those that will qualify to the team will be welcomed to our camp and be taken over by the Kitara management,” Adibo assured.
Adibo revealed that the club is aiming to select a larger pool of players this year to avoid issues they faced previously.
“We shall be targeting a higher number of players than we did last year, this is because some of them didn’t meet FUFA’s screening and verification process,” he said.
The coach also encouraged young aspiring footballers to seize the opportunity but reminded them to remain optimistic even if they don’t make it this time.
“I call upon all the youngsters that would love to play football professionally to try out this opportunity.”
“However, it’s not that everyone will go through. And those that won’t make it shouldn’t give up on football. There are lots of other opportunities coming for them,” Adibo concluded.