Aspiring soccer stars in western NSW will get the chance to catch the eye of one of the biggest clubs in the world later this year when Celtic FC visit the central west.
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Later this year, at least two members of Celtic FC will run coaching clinics in 12 locations across the western area, giving juniors a chance to learn from some of the best mentors in the world.
Celtic FC, based in Glasgow, is one of the world’s most respected clubs and they have won the Scottish Premiership for each of the past five seasons.
Their top side includes current Socceroos midfielder Tom Rogic.
It was Forbes resident Doug McKenzie, a man who works developing junior talents within the Western NSW region, that lured members of the famous club to the Central West.
“I was talking to a mate in Europe to see if he knew any of the big clubs would be keen to come out to regional areas,” McKenzie said.
“The big teams come to Sydney and Melbourne, but not regional centres.
“So then I contacted Celtic, who this time of year are running clinics in the USA and Canada as it is summer over there. They said if I could send them a schedule and they could fit in, then they’d be happy to come. It was that simple.”
While it is yet to be confirmed just who will make the trip, McKenzie said they will be at a minimum UEFA B level licenced coaches.
To have coaches of that calibre headed to the area is a massive boost for local football.
“Some pundits might look at Celtic and say they are not the Barcelonas of the world, and they’re not, but they are still a big club and have had plenty of success,” McKenzie said.
“If it can be a positive football experience for coaches and kids and cost effective, then it’s going to be of benefit to the community.”
Bathurst is one of 12 locations across the state that the Celtic coaches will visit, with places such as Cobar, Young, Lithgow, Forbes and Orange to host clinics as, which are open to boys and girls aged between five and 18.
While they cater to juniors of all abilities, McKenzie said it is a chance for those with plenty of talent to impress.
“If there are one or two kids that can strike the eye, no doubt they could be invited to go over and trial,” McKenzie said.
“There is certainly talent around the Central West.
“For Celtic, it’s a new market to them, so it’s a great opportunity for the kids. It is a unique chance and if we can take it, it will be a big boost for the area.”