World Cup Star in visit to University

‌The former Cameroon international footballer set up a foundation, Coeur d’Afrique, to help under-privileged children in his homeland after he retired.

Last year the University sponsored a new Multimedia Centre in Yaoundé, which will help promote English language and ICT skills and will give children from disadvantaged backgrounds free access.

As part of the link-up Roger visited the University with staff from the foundation. The trip included a visit to the University’s Walsall Campus to see its sports facilities, giving a talk about his career and taking part in a football match recreating the famous World Cup match in 1990 between England and Cameroon.

The foundation took time to visit Wolverhampton Wanderers, where they were treated to a tour by Chief Executive Jez Moxey of the Molineux stadium and Compton training ground. Roger was also guest of honour at the League One match against Rotherham.

Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton, Professor Geoff Layer, said: “It was great to welcome Roger and members of the foundation and we are really pleased with the partnership we have with them.

“Obviously, Roger is known for his feats on the football field. I remember fondly his performances at Italia 90 and it was nice to line up alongside him on the pitch.

“But what’s even more impressive is that he has chosen to use his fame to help others in his retirement. Millions of children in Africa don’t have access to education so it is vital that foundations like C’oeur d’Afrique exist and operate.

“We are both organisations that are passionate about education and giving people opportunities to learn and advance themselves and improve their lives.”

Roger, who became globally known after scoring four goals in the 1990 World Cup in Italy and helping his team reach the quarter finals, said: “I was extremely happy to be invited to the University. Everybody was very welcoming. The foundation is very pleased to be working with the University of Wolverhampton and I look forward to working with them over many years.”

He still holds the record for the oldest player and goal scorer in a World Cup when he appeared in at USA 94 at the age of 42. The University has built up close links with Cameroon and in the last three years has recruited more than 120 students from the country.

ENDS

For more information please contact James Allen in the Media Relations Office on 01902 322003.

Date Issued: Monday 28 April 2014