AFC Bournemouth players Dominic Solanke and Nathaniel Clyne surprised almost 150 children at the Community Sports Trust’s latest soccer school.
The Bournemouth sessions, which run throughout every half term and school holiday, are kindly sponsored by a local printers based in Poole.
After a day filled with drills, shooting practise and small-sided games, the two players arrived to give out prizes and take part in a question-and-answer session.
Following the presentations, the children grabbed an autograph from the players, both of whom joined the club in the January transfer window.
As the day drew to a close, striker Dominic spoke about the importance of such sessions and the development of young players.
“It’s great, I think this is where it all starts. It’s really enjoyable and, back when I was their age, I loved just playing football, so it’s great to see so many here.
“It’s nice for us to come down and see it all here. It’s exciting for the kids and great to see them smiling.
“I remember some players doing the same for me so it’s a good feeling to come and do it for them.”
Paul Dawe, owner of CMP Print, also expressed his delight at the growing number of children attending the sessions.
“It’s great to see so many people here, in particular the number of girls. It just goes to show how the sessions are evolving.
“The club put a lot of time into running these soccer schools, which is why we like to get involved and putting something back into it.
“Everyone does such a great job and it’s nice to be involved.”
AFC Bournemouth have thanked CMP Print, who sponsor the club’s soccer schools in Bournemouth and have been official partners of the Community Sports Trust for four consecutive seasons.