Open Training 2009

Around £40,000 was raised as the Theatre of Dreams opened its gates for approximately 10,000 supporters to watch Sir Alex Ferguson put his team through their paces in a full training session on the pitch.

The team were training for this year’s Community Shield, which takes place tomorrow. For the second year running, the Foundation hosted the event and all proceeds will go towards its work in the community in Manchester, Salford and Trafford.

Talking on the day about his support for the Foundation, Sir Alex Ferguson said:  “The Foundation has a great operation now.  It has stretched its network with so many different charities and of course the connection with UNICEF is a very important part.  The players have been very supportive of that.  "

Sir Alex also had a few words of advice for aspiring footballers:

“There is no particular secret in terms of wanting to be a footballer, but the first thing you need is practise.  All you need is a ball and a pair of boots or trainers. That’s the great thing about football – you can practise all you want.”

Foundation Chief Executive John Shiels said:

“ Once again we had a great turnout and the weather was fantastic.  There were hundreds of families here and many people who perhaps haven’t been to Old Trafford before, which makes the atmosphere even better.  As a charity the Foundation needs to give something back to our supporters so events like these are brilliant for us and the money raised will go back into our work with young people in the local community.”

Along with the first team training session on the Old Trafford pitch, fans also got to see the Manchester United Premier Cup Final, catching a glimpse of some of the international stars of the future, as they battled it out for the prestigious Premier Cup. Fans also enjoyed fairground rides, snack bars, and inflatable football activities after the on pitch activities finished, ensuring that all who attend experienced a fantastic family day out.
 
The Manchester United Foundation is the charitable arm of the football club and works to educate motivate and inspire young people in Manchester. It delivers football coaching, skills training, personal development and life changing experiences, providing young people with opportunities to change their lives and communities for the better.