Bellamy creates job opportunities for Salone youths

By Abubakarr Kamara

West Ham United striker, Craig Bellamy has disclosed that his academy would create lots of job opportunities for Sierra Leoneans in general and the youths of Tombo Community in particular.

He made this disclosure last Saturday at the turning of the sod for the commencement of construction work at the academy’s site in Tombo.

Speaking at the ceremony, the former Liverpool striker and Welsh captain said the standard of the academy would be very high, adding that players graduating from it would be like any other player that has gone through an academy in Europe.

He disclosed that from day one Sierra Leoneans would benefit in the construction work of the academy as they would be employed throughout the process.

“The academy would not only benefit players but also skillful youths who would be contracted to do the construction work of the academy. When completed, this academy is going to be one of the best in Africa and I’m expecting those that will be fortunate to enter it, to be of high standard,” said the one time Blackburn Rovers hit man.

Bellamy further maintained that the academy is not only going to look at football but also education, which he said is the bedrock to a successful career in football. He noted that football is for a short time as players would have to live their normal life after football, and added that if they do not concentrate on education, they would have nothing to do after retiring from the game.

“A player should be educated and self disciplined in order to be successful in life. After retiring from football, you look at other opportunities, which would only come your way if you had been educated during your youth days,” Bellamy said.

The Welsh captain, however, appealed to the Tombo community people to take this opportunity as a blessing from God. He advised that they take great care of the academy as it is a step forward to the development of the community.

After his speech, Bellamy donated several footballs and sets of jersey to football clubs in the community.

Hon Chukuma Johnson, in his statement welcomed the striker to the community and assured him of security and care for the academy.

The Minister of Education, Youths and Sports, Dr Minkailu Bah, gave the key note address while Hon Chernor Bah was also in attendance at the ceremony.