The Australian Elite Soccer Football Academy has promised a ``unique'' approach to coaching.

Operated by George Lazarou, the clinic aims to encourage children's passion for soccer through 10-week programs during school terms.

``We teach the skill and technique involved with balance and co-ordination but it's not just about the ball. We also have a nutritionist, podiatrist and sports psychiatrists to help the kids,'' Lazarou said.

``We make it fun so they pick up on the skills and knowledge without realising they are learning.''

Lazarou said the kids are grouped with others of a similar ability and focus on coordination, passing and receiving, dribbling and ball techniques. The clinic also provides home training programs so they can practise outside the clinic.

``It takes more than three hours a week to become a talented soccer player,'' Lazarou said. The coaches are all former or current A league players.

The program caters for children aged seven to 12, with an interest in soccer regardless of their experience.

The Academy is centrally located in Belmore but branches out to local communities so kids can learn in their own environment. Some players in the clinic can eventually be selected to move on to a 42-week program in Belmore, which offers the chance to join the Stanmore Hawks Football Club and put their practice into action.

``Soccer is the most played sport globally and helps kids to make new friendships,'' Lazarou said. Picture: Gary Warrick