Stefan Effenberg Launch First World-class Football, academy in Thailand Options

[Thaiman]

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Former German international midfielder Stefan Effenberg's plans to launch south-east Asia's first world-class football academy in Thailand were given a major boost with the sealing of a land deal.(AFP/DPA/File/Miguel Villagran)


BANGKOK (AFP) - Former German international midfielder Stefan Effenberg's plans to launch south-east Asia's first world-class football academy in Thailand were given a major boost with the sealing of a land deal, academy officials told AFP.

Construction on Asia's First Football Academy (AFA 999) had been delayed this year amid a dispute over land in northern Chiang Rai province, but Effenberg's team said they had now secured a new site.

"We have been delayed... but a new land deal has been done now," AFA 999 team leader Harald Wywijas told AFP.

"We are not here to play politics, we are here for football," Wywijas said.

Effenberg and private investors have pledged about three million dollars for the facility.

It is expected to be operational by 2005 and has slots for 250 young Thais who if they prove talented enough may train with and eventually play for a Bundesliga team.

The former Bayern Munich star was due in Bangkok at the weekend to preside over the team's ongoing roadshow to find new talent.

About 1,336 young players have already been tested throughout the kingdom, and 33 have been given slots in the academy.

In 1999, Effenberg set up a charity to assist under-privileged Thai children called Help Me.

[Nung1]

awww thats so cool!! good for the kids who love the sport!