Latest blog from club's delegation in India
OUR latest trip took us to a slum village in the centre of Delhi.
Coaches Dave and Siobhan were able to teach the children some basic football skills alongside our partners from YFI (Youth Football International).
The language barrier was no problem and the fun the children had was a joy to behold.
The children were all presented with water bottles, WBA pencils and Albion Foundation wristbands as well as English learning activity bookings specially branded in Baggies colours.
Our delegation later travelled to the impressive and imposing Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium - home to the 2010 Commonwealth games - where we finalised plans for the big launch event of our 'Pass It Forward' programme.
The encouragement and support received from Jiji Thomson, Director General of the Sports Authority of India, showed how excited the people of India are to have West Bromwich Albion here to promote community engagement through football.
That message was clear for everyone to see at the excellent facilities of the American Embassy School, as Dave and Siobhan conducted the first stage of our talent trials.
Children from right across India – and from all walks of life - attended the trials and the standard of football on show was good.
One 13-year-old boy had travelled by train for nearly two days just to join in the trials with the Albion Foundation coaches.
Matthew Dainty (West Bromwich Albion Head of Marketing).