Magpies Pair Step Into Management

Magpies youngsters Gael Bigirimana and Sammy Ameobi took their first steps into management on Tuesday afternoon, at a Newcastle United Foundation event.

The duo - aged 18 and 20 respectively - coached seven-a-side teams at a tournament at Complete Football, in Gosforth, to celebrate the Foundation's partnership with Tyne Metropolitan College.

The Club's official charity manages two of the College's football squads while also providing a coach education programme, and Bigirimana and Ameobi lent their expertise for the afternoon, going head-to-head on the touchline.

Bigirimana's side came from 2-1 down at half-time to triumph 3-2 over Ameobi's team, and leave the midfielder beaming at a satisfying day's work.

"I really enjoyed the afternoon as a whole, not just beating Sammy!" he said.

"I'm really grateful to have the opportunity to meet these guys and spend time with them. I love meeting people, having a chat and passing on any help I can.

"As a footballer it is sometimes easy to just take everything, but for me the key thing is all about giving, and giving your time to things like this.

"It was great to see what the Foundation do and I can't wait to get involved in more events."

Ben Dawson, senior football development officer of Newcastle United Foundation, added: "The partnership with Tyne Met College is going from strength to strength.

"Extra contact time with players along with an improved coach education programme will help them develop not only their football skills but life and employability skills that should be vital once their education with us and Tyne Met is complete."

http://www.nufc.co.uk/page/Foundation/News/0,,10278~2916761,00.html