Samsung Mobile has partnered up with Play Soccer South Africa to contribute for the development of young soccer players in South Africa. The campaign is entitled “NextHero” and is focused on improving the bond that soccer creates with young people.

Everything a Samsung J700 is sold, the manufacturer will donate a portio of the revenue to the campaign. To further motivate the public, Samsung has also created an in-store competition where J700 buyers stand the chance to win a trip to London to see Samsung’s greatest soccer hero, Didier Drogba, play a match for Chelsea against arch rivals, Arsenal on 30th November 2008.

Two soccer greats have also become involved in the program as coaches. Shaun Bartlett(a Bafana Bafana veteran) and Itumeleng Khune (a rising star on the Bafana Bafana team) will be playing the role of coach for the next two months (September and October). Both men have expressed a passion for soccer development at a grassroots level and are proud to be involved in this program. In a brief interview, Itumeleng spoke of his own experiences as a young soccer player. He believes that children need strong role models and mentors, and we heartily agree. It is a privilege to have the involvement of these soccer stars.

[via Samsung Blog]