Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Ramatsiyi Moholoa

A total of 165 youngsters from as far as Thohoyandou, Umlazi and Galeshewe have registered with Orlando Pirates Youth Development this year.

Augusto Palacios, Pirates' technical director, said they will be starting with pre-season training to prepare for 2008 next week.

Palacios said the development represent players doing duty for the reserve side, Under-19s, Under-17s, Under-16s, Under-15s, Under-14s, Under-13s and Under-12s.

The decision to start with the pre-season training was taken following Tuesday's meeting with the youngsters' parents and guardians.

Also present at the meeting were Bucs' head of administration and former South African student national coach Floyd "Jomo" Mbele and manager Ephraim "Shakes" Mashaba.

Bob Mabaso, a representative of the club's technical sponsors adidas, was also there.

"The aim of the meeting was to deal with reports of the players from the school, behaviour and the football aspect," said Palacios.

"We are delighted that most of our boys did well, some passed with distinctions. The meeting also dealt with this year's activities, including tournaments.

"We also discussed the issue of agents and business managers because it is of concern. Many parents are unhappy that youngsters were now their main targets.

"A decision that no cellular phones will be allowed on the premises during training sessions and matches because children tend not to concentrate was also taken."