Zazu Football School kicks off new season on Oct. 1

The Zazu Football School (ZFS) is applying the final touches to its programme of activities for season 2007-08 which kicks off tomorrow week.

Fronted by Ray Farrugia, the current head coach of Premier League club Sliema Wanderers, the Zazu Football School has established itself as one of the leading youth football entities on the Maltese islands since its foundation in 2005.

Apart from the daily practice sessions at the University pitches, the ZFS administration and coaches organised various off-pitch activities last season.

Over 150 people turned up for a social event at the Westin Dragonara Hotel, one of the ZFS main sponsors, to celebrate the school's second anniversary in February.

Also in February, a group of ZFS coaches, namely head coach Farrugia, Wayne Attard and Stephen Deguara, travelled to England where they had the opportunity to see how the famed Liverpool FC Academy go about developing young football talent.

Their trip to Liverpool was made possible thanks to funds ZFS received from the European Union.

In a statement, the ZFS administration said that 2007-08 promises to be another interesting and eventful year for their young trainees.

"Football development and the character formation of our students have been at the core of the Zazu Football School philosophy since day one of the school's existence," Farrugia said in the statement.

"After another positive year, we are fully geared up for the 2007-08 season which starts on October 1. In addition to the usual training sessions, we have plans to hold two educational seminars for our young members and their parents and an overseas football tour.

"In 2005, our one-week tour to Manchester was an unforgettable experience for our young members and coaches, and this season, we are hopeful of organising another trip on those same lines."

Assisting Farrugia in coaching the over 150 members of the ZFS last season were Wayne Attard, Ronald Vella, Ray Sant, Stephen Deguara and Steve D'Amato.

For more information on the ZFS activities, one may call on 9944-6090 or visit the school's website www.zazufootballschool.com.