Sports
16:57, 05-Dec-2017
Egyptian academy gives Syrian migrants hope
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More than 240,000 Syrians have migrated to Egypt since conflict broke out in their country in 2011. Now some of the migrant children have a good place to go after school – the Syria Stars Academy in Cairo.
It was founded two years ago by Anas al-Hosary, a retired professional footballer who played in the Syrian League 1st Division until he moved to Egypt nearly five years ago. The 37-year-old owns a clothing shop to support his family and spends some of his own finances on the academy.
"I got the idea when I wanted to do something for the Syrian children. But it's for all, not for Syrians only. It's for everyone who wants to join us. I chose this name 'Syria Stars Academy'," the founder Anas Al-Hosary said, "because I wanted to remind the young players of their country, Syria."
As much as they love training, youngsters make sure their footballing ambitions do not cause conflict with their studies.
"I come here twice a week, and I like my school so much. I'm good at my school and at the same time I like football so much and I like my club so much," Syria Stars Academy player Omran Halawa said.
From opening with 10 players two years ago, Syria Stars now caters for around 140 players between the ages of 5 and 17. The academy is already a feeder school to local Egyptian clubs such as powerhouses Al Ahly and Zamalek.