Liverpool "has announced plans to launch an academy in India," according to James Pearce of the LIVERPOOL ECHO. The Reds "have joined forces with DSK Shivajians FC for the initiative in Pune which will open in January." The LFC Int'l Football Academy DSK "will be a residential complex featuring full-size pitches, practice areas, classrooms, changing rooms, a gym, canteen, lecture theatre and medical facilities" (LIVERPOOL ECHO, 10/16). The PTI reported the program, which will support aspiring young footballers up to the age of 18, "will provide the players with the opportunity to develop their game in a professional academy environment, said the release from Libero Sports, a consultancy firm which facilitated the initiative." Coaches from Liverpool "will work on the project in India and will pass on technical expertise to the players and coaches." Over time, more full-time coaches will come from Liverpool "to oversee each age group players at the Academy" (PTI, 10/16). Academy Dir Frank McParland said, "Education and community work is key to the development of our young players" (BBC, 10/16).
