By Leslie Collins
Northeast News
July 20, 2011

Verizon Youth Soccer Clinic is headed to Kansas City again.

This year, Carlos Valderrama is the all-star featured player that will provide youth with extra instruction and autographs.

“He’s the equivalent of Michael Jordan for these kids,” said Alejandro Cabero of Northeast Soccer League.

The free soccer clinic is open to boys and girls ages five to 17 and will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, July 24, at Manual Career Technical Center Field, 1215 E. Truman Rd., Kansas City, Mo.

Youth will learn additional skills and techniques and drills with and without the ball.

“It’s a good opportunity for the kids,” Juan Muniz of Northeast Soccer League said.

Cabero added that the youth will learn about more than just soccer.

“Each of these professional players the league is bringing is coming with a message about good habits, making better choices and how to make it professionally,” Cabero said.

Pre-registration is preferred and may be done at the Verizon Wireless Store, 5828 Antioch, Merriam, Kan., (913) 384-0781, or online at www.alianzadefutbol.com. Muniz said youth can also register the day of at Manual Career Tech. However, space is limited.

The first 350 participants will receive a free soccer jersey, sports sack and sports towel. For more information, visit www.alianzadefutbol.com.