Michael Owen’s Kids’ Football Camp is returning to Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort for its third edition, running from 14 to 17 October 2026. Following two successful camps, the former England striker will be back on Fares Island to coach young guests through skills sessions, team challenges and a final match in Baa Atoll.
Designed for children aged 5 to 13 of all abilities, the programme gives young players the opportunity to train directly with the 2001 Ballon d’Or winner. Three 90-minute coaching sessions will progress from first touch, passing and overloads to dribbling and ball mastery, followed by challenges and matches.
The four-day programme begins with Stories with a Legend, where Michael will share tales from a career that included Liverpool, Real Madrid, Newcastle United, Manchester United and the England national team, giving young fans a chance to discover the person behind the player. Audiences can see more of this side of Michael in Meet the Owens, the six-part docuseries premiering on 28 August, which follows his life with wife Louise and their four children. The camp continues with coaching sessions, team challenges and a final match before concluding with a farewell party featuring live music, a Q&A with Michael and a shirt-signing session. Every young player will also be presented with a medal and certificate.
Commenting on his return, Michael Owen said: “I’m thrilled to be returning to Avani+ Fares Maldives this October for the third edition of the football camp. Over the past two camps, it’s been fantastic to see so many young players develop their skills and confidence while creating unforgettable memories with their families in Baa Atoll. I’m excited to welcome back familiar faces, meet new players and families and enjoy another few days of football, learning and fun together.”
Beyond the pitch, the programme brings the whole family into the action with mocktail mixology, beach Olympics, a themed movie night and a pool party. Families can also join a sunset fishing trip or make the most of the resort’s wider line-up of water sports, diving and island activities. Younger guests can spend time at AvaniKids and Teens Club, with creative activities and dedicated spaces designed for different age groups. Mealtimes are part of the experience too, with Petit Bistro, the resort’s kids-only restaurant, created exclusively for younger diners.
Set within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Avani+ Fares Maldives gives families direct access to snorkelling along the island’s house reef. The resort offers a range of accommodation for different family sizes, from interconnecting Pavilion rooms and Beach Pool Villas to over water villas. Larger families can opt for two and three bedroom Over Water Pool Residences, with private pools and generous shared living areas.
The Island Family Adventures offer starts from USD 688 per night for two adults and one child sharing a Premium Beachfront Room on a Half Board basis. The Football Camp is complimentary for resort guests staying during the event. Each registered participant will also receive an official Football Kit.
For the full programme and to book, visit Avani+ Fares Maldives, email reservations.fares@
