Budding Beckhams and future Ferdinands will be sharpening their soccer skills this summer at two separate coaching clinics organised by Bermudian footballers.

Major Indoor League Soccer star David Bascome is currently holding a coaching school at the National Sports Centre, while Bermuda Hogges keeper Jason Williams has organised a two-week programme at Bermuda College later this month. Both are designed to improve football skills as well as providing youngsters with an all-round sporting education.

Over 250 Bermuda youngsters have already signed up for Bascome’s 2007 Bank of Bermuda Pro Soccer Clinic and will be put through their paces by a number of top overseas coaches.

Former MISL player Lester Felician, current MISL player Danny Kelly, USA women’s player Tammy Pearman, former pro-player Mike Williams and Richmond Kickers player/coach Jaclyn Raveia make up Bascome’s coaching team.

Held on the North Field, the clinic includes an advanced group for players aged between 10-14, from 9 to 11 a.m., and a Kiddy Kickers session from 6 to 8 p.m.

A select group of players will then be selected by the coaches to join a school of excellence for a further week’s coaching from July 9 until July 13.

Kim Wheddon, from the Bank of Bermuda, said although football was at the heart of the clinic it would also embody an academic and community element. Last year’s course saw players taken to visit a local care home with a similar trip planned this time around.

Hogges goalkeeper Williams has also been busy organising a coaching school for 13-16 year-olds from July 16-27.

The North Village keeper has enlisted the help of a few ex-team-mates from Howard University, USA, to give Island youngsters a good grounding in football.

Over the fortnight a number of top football names will be attending to impart their knowledge, including former Premiership strikers Shaun Goater, Kyle Lightbourne as well as David Bascome.

A guest professional team from the United Soccer League will also be flying in to sign autographs, while a nutritionist will talk to players about the benefits of healthy eating.

Organising the clinic has been a labour of love for Williams who is eager to give something back to game and provide youngsters with an opportunity to improve their skills.

“I’ve been involved in coaching youth players at North Village for a while and have been planning this clinic for quite a few months.

“Participants will be provided with two uniforms, catering will be provided and we will be looking at all areas of the game including fitness and nutrition.

“Parents can drop their children off with us and we’ll take care of the rest.”

The course costs $400 and anyone interested can pick up registration forms from the International Sports Shop on Bermudiania Road or the Pro Shop on Reid Street. Alternatively Williams can be contacted on 534-1984.