A GROUP of 102 lucky children are having their dreams of becoming the next Galactico fuelled by taking part in an elite training course run this week by Real Madrid’s soccer academy.

Arranged by Isle of Wight Community Sports Coaching, Real Madrid’s academy team, supported by three Island coaches, will be taking footballers aged seven to 15 years through the most advanced training regime they could imagine.

The event, which got underway yesterday (Monday) on the pitches of the Isle of Wight Community Club, Cowes, will run through until Friday.

The record quota of 102 places sold out in less than a day.

Real Madrid academy coach, Georgi Sivkov, said the Island youngsters had shown a fantastic attitude and have responded well to the training regime so far this week.

“At Real Madrid, we set a high standard — bringing our philosophy of working hard for each other and getting the best out of children," said Georgi.

Five children will be picked for a special national training camp, of which three will be invited to join other top young players from around Europe to train and play at one of the world’s most iconic stadiums, the Bernabeu.

  • For a full report with pictures, see this Friday's edition of the Isle of Wight County Press.