In September 2007 the first Sporting Chance International Football Academy was formed. Sixty boys had regular coaching throughout the year at weekends. Two coaches were appointed. Steve Mucheru as the Director of coaching with Mike Kibathi as his assistant. The academy works to a tight budget that allows for tournaments, first aid kits, equipment and a meal for the boys at weekends. In 2010 a new coach was appointed, James Nandwa, also coach of Premier league team Tuskers FC. This will offer the chance for the best boys to be scouted by the top clubs in Kenya. The Kenya trustees are currently looking for a new venue.

What does it cost?

£35 a week to employ both coaches.

£10 will buy a leather ball especially made for African pitches.

£7 will pay for one boy to be coached for a month.

How can I help?

You can make a donation or give regularly to this life changing work. You could sponsor one of the boys for just £7.00 a month. The gift of a ball would make such a difference.

What is special about the SCI method?

More than football coaching, this academy will give the boys life skills and leadership that will train them for their futures. Profiles from boys previously coached under the guidance of Steve Mucheru give testimony to the difference the academy will make.

Timothy Ndunda Masumba (SCIFC) How long with Mucheru: 10 years. Educated at Piemese Africa Development Institute for a course in Community Development and Project Management. Aspirations: To become a project manager and work with the community. “Apart from being a coach he has also played the role of a second father in my life. Many of our mates our age have become involved in crime, but football has kept me busy. Mucheru has guided and counselled me all the way up until now. He has been a mentor and someone to look up to.”

Joseph Mudiri. Age: 21 How long with Mucheru: 11 ½ years. Educated at Nairobi Institute of Business Studies for a course in Journalism. Aspirations: to become a radio presenter. “I have learned to work well with other people in my field of work. Being with my coach and team mates has improved my discipline. In my daily life I have come to accept my responsibilities on and off the field, thanks to my coach. My wonderful coach, Mucheru, trained me to become the player I am now."