A NEW youth soccer training base, supported by Shenzhen, has opened in Kashgar, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, where over 400 local children will train this summer.

The base, constructed with an investment of 100 million yuan (US$13.76 million), features 14 sports fields, including three FIFA Quality Pro certified 11-a-side pitches.

“The summer camp currently includes more than 400 players aged 8 to 15 from 22 local schools,” said Turahun Abdurehman, vice chairman of the Xinjiang Football Association. “These children will train here and receive free accommodation and meals.”

“We have professional fields and coaches here, and I hope to play soccer often in the future,” said local student Ismaili Mehmetali.

Kashgar is a key city in China’s youth soccer development plan, and over 100 players from the city have joined various professional clubs.

(Xinhua)