Titans of Portuguese club football, SL Benfica are returning to Jamaica for the second staging of a summer football camp, in partnership with Sports Innovators Group, Nexus Global and Driftwood Dream.

Following the successful inaugural run at Sabina Park in 2023, which attracted over 80 youth, this year’s camp will run from July 8 -12, at the Barbican Astro Turf Football Field in St Andrew.

The camp is open to boys and girls aged eight to 17 years.

Daily sessions will be conducted with all the participants, culminating in two games featuring a selection of the most outstanding players by age group.

Paul Campbell, managing director at Sports Innovators Group, speaking to the camp reiterated the organisation’s mission.

“Our strategic approach is to provide outlets for the fantastic football talent we have here to recognised and certified international guidance and motivation. SIG aims not only to showcase the talent we possess but also position Jamaica as a premier sporting destination,” he explained.

Last year’s visiting Benfica coaches and instructors had high praise for their experience on both fronts, expressing highly positive impressions of the talent pool presented as well as the overall visitor experience, with that being their first visit to the island.

Likewise, the players, parents and local coaches had great reviews of the camp, praising the content, the excursion and overall fellowship and the positive residual outlook.

All indicators are that the 2024 camp will surpass the initial exercise, with the attendant benefits for youth and the sport.