The next generation of footballing greats might be gracing New Zealand's sporting arenas, but for one of Tauranga's top footballing clubs it's the even younger talent that will have a close eye on them.

Tauranga City United left back Sam Nahna and winger Jerahl Hughes help Parae Maxwell, 12, perfect the art of passing. Photo by Tracy Hardy.

This school holidays, from July 4-19, Tauranga City United is helping keep school children on their toes and off the couch with a skills-based soccer academy, part of Tauranga YMCA's Winter Holiday Programme.

Tauranga City United left back Sam Nahna and winger Jerahl Hughes are leading the charge, with children aged five-13 encouraged to enrol for the two-week programme – running Monday to Friday.

Tauranga City United is the biggest footballing club in the Bay of Plenty and currently locked in a tough battle for premier status in the Northern League Division One competition.

Each day, from 9am-3pm, Sam and Jerahl will take what is hoped to be about 20 children through the basic drills before finishing with a match in the afternoon – sure to have the children heading home with empty energy tanks.

This includes passing, dribbling, and tackling. Vital skills in helping the next generation of footballer coming through, says Sam.

'This is a crucial time for children to learn the basics of the game, especially if they want to pursue further on.

'Each day will be jam-packed with fun-filled activities and different games, so if you're looking for a week full of excitement, then this is for you.”

It's hoped a key difference for the programme is its flexibility where children don't have to lock in for the whole fortnight, instead picking and choosing what days they want to attend and have a run around.

Sam and Jerahl will also touch on the aura and hype around NZ hosting the the FIFA Under 20 World Cup, something that shouldn't be lost on anyone.

In its 20th edition, this is the first time NZ plays hosts global tournament and the third time it's on Oceania soil after Australia staged the 1981 and 1993 editions. A total of 52 matches will be played in seven host cities.

'I think it's good they understand it's in New Zealand and the benefits of it being here.”

For more information on the two-week programme, call Sam Nahna on 022 050 1494.