FORMER Bolton legend Jussi Jaaskelainen was on hand to give help and guidance to young goalkeepers at a special training camp.
Fifty talented players from across the region aged eight to 18 were taught to ‘train like a pro for the day’ at Westhoughton Leisure Centre.
Jaaskelainen, who played for Bolton Wanderers from 1997 until 2012, taught the youngsters shot stopping, exercises and routines at the camp.
The event was organised by Select Soccer working in conjunction with Fred Barber, a former Wanderers coach. Jussi Jaaskelainen appeared alongside organiser Fred Barber’s team of coaches including Jonathan Barber (ex-Hartlepool United), Dave Richards and Ben Garratt (Crewe) and Will Jaaskelainen (ex-Bolton).
Mark Parsisson, managing director of Select Soccer, said it had been a great day.
He said: “The players came from all across Greater Manchester but there were also keepers from Liverpool, Huddersfield and Bury. There were being taught how to train like a professional goalkeeper.
“Me and Fred helped then develop their skills working with the lads. We have seen some good goalkeepers and we will be contacting football clubs and academies. I hope Bolton Wanderers have been watching closely.”
Charlie Ford, aged eight, from Standish, Wigan, took part in the event. His dad Steve, aged 41, said: “He has really enjoyed it. It was an experience he might not get again, working with former professionals.”
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