Laureus football star gives masterclass to Malaysia youngsters
February 27, 2014
Some of Malaysia’s most talented young footballers were given the thrill of a lifetime when they met Laureus Academy Member Mick Doohan and Laureus Ambassador André Villas-Boas and took part in a lively discussion on the subject of ‘overcoming challenges through sport’.
Top football coach André Villas-Boas, who has managed FC Porto, Chelsea and Tottenham, and five-time 500cc world motor cycle champion Mick Doohan, spent time with the players at the Piala Mamee 1Malaysia Under 19 football tournament, the finals of which are being held in Bangi, and also handed out prizes to the third and fourth placed teams.
The tournament, which is supported by charity Yayasan Rakyat 1Malaysia (YR1M), has been taking place across Malaysia and has now reached the final stages.
The visit came just days after Laureus World Sports Academy Chairman Edwin Moses had been in Kuala Lumpur to announce an innovative charity tie-up between Laureus and YR1M to benefit young people in Malaysia through the use of sport.
André Villas-Boas said: “I am passionate about how football can help in the community and Laureus has shown over the years that it understands how to make a difference to young people’s lives through sport. It was great to spend time talking and listening to the players.
“Malaysia is a wonderful country and I am glad that the Laureus World Sports Awards are being held here next month. That will be a great success, I know, but just as important is the fact that Laureus is working with YR1M to help young people and to ensure that we leave a legacy far beyond the Awards.”
Mick Doohan said: “Laureus is founded on a belief in the inspirational power of sport and we have seen how it can transform lives all over the world. Laureus has proved time and again that sports projects are highly effective when it comes to giving young people self-esteem and better hope for their futures. Working with such excellent partners as YR1M will allow us to extend our activities in Malaysia and
Hhopefully make a real difference in the country.”
Yayasan Rakyat 1Malaysia is a charitable foundation dedicated towards benefitting Malaysians from all walks of life in line with the principles of 1Malaysia.
