Former footballer Larsen visits |27 October 2004

The former Ascot centre-forward left Seychelles in July 1961 to join the British army.

Larsen started playing football when he was a student at the then Seychelles College in 1955. From 1956 to 1961 he played for Ascot, one of the best teams in the country at that time, alongside big names like Rolly Baker, Louis Woodcock and Percy Delpech.

The 67-year-old, who never played professional level football even though he was offered the chance to, said that Seychelles possesses some talented players.

"I went to watch the game between St Louis and Sunshine and from what I've also heard, I can say that Seychelles boasts some talented young footballers. They need better training though to further develop their skills as I have noted a lack of fitness amongst some of the players. I was impressed with St Louis' number 10 and number 23 (Alpha Baldé and Philip Zialor ) who are good dribblers and Sunshine's number 12 (Denis Barbé) whose ball control is excellent," said Larsen, who left the country on Sunday.

He added that there is a lot of effort being made to develop the sport here.
"I can see that there are many infrastructures and different policies in place to help the sport reach greater heights. There is still more room for improvement but you are on the right track," he said, adding that players nowadays lack motivation and discipline and are less committed to their clubs.

"During my time as a footballer, we were more dedicated and we played with our heart. You don't see much of that here today," he added.

Larsen firmly believes that the level of football back in the 1960s and 1970s was slightly higher than today.

"In my opinion, three or four decades ago, the level of the game was slightly higher than today. It's hard to judge as I haven't been around for quite a while but that's what I think. Many may not agree with me though. Like I said before, you have the potential to go further, it's just a matter of time," said Larsen.

He also revealed that whilst here, he helped the committee working on the
draft document depicting the 'History of Seychelles Football' from 1930 to 1979.

"I have been approached by Rolly (Baker) to help the committee by sharing my knowledge and experience. I was very happy to do it and I hope my contribution will be useful towards the materialisation of the project," said Larsen.

He added that he sincerely feels that the committee has so far done a good job.
"Whoever came up with the idea needs a pat on the back," he concluded.

C. J.