Football legend and former Azkals captain Stephan Schröck continues to blaze new trails for Philippine football as he brought his expertise to the Bacolod Central District pitch, leading a grassroots football clinic to inspire and motivate Negrense booters, according to a press release from the organizers.
More than a hundred kids from Bacolod and nearby towns joined the weekend clinic, participating in hands-on drills and training sessions personally supervised by Schröck.
“We want to create a pathway here in Negros,” Schröck said. “We already have academies in San Carlos City and Pontevedra—and now, here in Bacolod, which is absolutely my favorite.” He emphasized the goal of the Azkals Development Academy is to help young players dream big and pursue a future in football.
Although he retired from the national team in 2023 after an illustrious 11-year stint, Schröck remains deeply connected to the sport and the Negrenses. The memories of playing in front of passionate crowds at the iconic Panaad Park and Stadium continue to fuel his mission as the academy’s director.
“I miss the people here. They always made me feel special and appreciated. And of course, the food,” he said while recalling his days with the national team.
Schröck firmly believes in the potential of Philippine football. “For me, football in the Philippines is a sleeping giant. It’s only a matter of time before we reach our big goal on the international stage,” he said. “What we need is the right environment—one that keeps players committed long enough to go pro or represent the country. That’s what we wanted to contribute here at the academy.”
Along the sidelines, parents and spectators eagerly snapped selfies and interacted with the football icon many once cheered for.
The clinic was more than just a fun-filled training experience but an avenue for the kids of Negros to skip their way closer to their dreams with the nation’s finest.*
