Four times a week, children and teenagers from the North of France play with a round ball around the stade Anjalay Coopen, in Belle Vue. Supervised by enthusiastic staff, the young members of the Northern Football Club learn the rules of soccer and the discipline of life. ZAK
When they take to the field, it’s to better master the techniques and fundamentals of the game. “We nurture their passion for soccer, but at the same time we teach them team spirit, healthy eating and discipline for sport, school and life itself,” explains Damien Laridon.
A coach and one of the initiators of the project, he says he wanted to offer young people in the region the chance to get involved in a healthy activity that would help them develop. “Initially, we are soccer enthusiasts who wanted to pass on this love to the younger generation. At the same time, we know we have to offer them alternatives to drugs and delinquency.”
The project was launched in January 2025 with the support of other committed individuals, including Yash Purboo. The initiative quickly caught on, and members of all ages joined the club. Today, there are around forty members. “We have a first team of children aged 5 to 9 who train on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The 10 to 17 year-olds train on Mondays and Wednesdays”, explains the coach.
By offering its members access to suitable equipment and a quality pitch, the club hopes to see the emergence of future champions. “Our youngsters are developing a real love of soccer, and many hope to go as far as they can. Soon, we’ll be taking part in tournaments where we hope to stand out.”
