After being called in to Panama’s preliminary roster ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Seattle Sounders defender Román Torres arrived in Panama City last week in time to announce the inauguration of the Román Torres Football Academy, which will help children from high-risk underprivileged communities in Panama.
“It’s a dream I’ve had since I was young,” said the Panamanian national team star during the press conference. “I grew up, like them, in a neighborhood where hope is low, where people who had less than I gave everything to help the kids.”
The academy will begin operations by sponsoring 50 kids from the Panama City neighborhoods of El Chorrillo, Curundú and Barraza, high-risk areas in the city. Sponsorship covers a child’s registration, monthly fee, uniform and gear.
“Today, I hope to pave the way for many talented children in the neighborhoods who only need an opportunity and guide,” said Torres.
