NORWAY’S VIKINGS F.C. VISIT UNITED 6 November 2009 Vikings Fooball Club Director of Youth Development, Mr. Kjell Inge Olsen and Talent Scout and former Norwegian International, Mr. Svein Fjaelberg visited United during their week long visit to Kwa-Zulu Natal. Vikings F.C. are a Norwegian Premiership outfit.

On the 02 November they attended the 1 st. training session and had met with United’s Head Coach, Gordon Igesund and later on the day they a meeting with Club’s, Chairman Mr. Farook Kadodia, CEO Mr. Afzal Khan and Head of the Youth Department, Katz Naidoo.

They were presented with an overview of United’s Development Programme and discussions on the association between the two Clubs in relation to the respective Youth Departments were also on the agenda.

Mr. Olsen was of the opinion that they would like to consider exchange of talented youth players, share ideas on youth coaching, administrative matters and other related Youth Development issues.

On the 03 November they attended the Youth Programme and met with Uniteds Development Coaches and coached the U17 and U19 Youth teams.

Mr. Fjaelberg was pleased with the quality of players and their ability to adapt to technical and tactical demands.

" There are exceptionally talented players and the lads are looking promising," added Fjaelberg. What pleases me about these players is their personalities, the glee on their faces and the willingness to learn, said Mr. Olsen.

United’s Chairman, Mr. Farook Kadodia feel such visits are of importance, valuable to the game and both Clubs.

" It shows that there are no boundaries, nor language or culture can stop the friendship of football people and I am pleased that we have met with the officials of Vikings. The possibilities are immense for both teams. It is start of a friendship," said Mr. Kadodia.

United’s CEO, Mr. Afzal Khan believes that the opportunity for a possible partnership in the areas discussed will be beneficial for both Clubs, players, coaches and more importantly for the “beautiful game”.

" I must also thank both Mr. Olsen, Mr. Fjaelberg and Vikings F.C. for visiting us and showing their goodwill in the promotion of the football," added Mr. Khan.  

Mr. Olsen (left) and Mr. Fjaelberg seen with their Maritzburg United “Makalabha” pictured with Mr. Brian Zuma of the Maritzburg Mincipality, Club’s Chairman Mr. Farook Kadodia and CEO Mr. Afzal Khan.

Both Mr. Olsen and Mr. Fjaelberg pose with the Coaches and Players from the Maritzburg United Development Programme. From left, Coach Themba Dlamini, Mr, Olsen, Coach Simo Msomi, Mr. Fjaelberg and Coach Dumisani Hlope.