The Great Call of China: Kinetic travelling 8,000km to compete in 'special' invitational tournament

By Tom BurtonThe rising power of world football is hosting a Gothia Cup tournament for the first time and Croydon-based Kinetic have been invited to play in the international competition.A squad of U17s will make the 8,000km trip to Shenyang next week ahead of playing a match a day from August 14 to August 18 in a group of six.Kinetic will pit their skills against AVBB Paris from France, BK Hacken from Sweden, South African side Mamelodi Sundowns, Tokyo Verdy from Japan and Hongyun from China as they compete for the inaugural Gothia Cup China.Director James Fotheringham, who has organised the tour, was honoured to receive the invite from Gothia Cup and the World Youth Football Union."It's an incredible honour," he said. "The boys and the coaching team can't wait to get out there and see what China has to offer."The country has pumped billions into football in recent years and it looks like becoming one of the big footballing superpowers."We've got a busy schedule but some fascinating matches lined up against teams from all four corners of the globe."It's a special competition and a unique experience for the boys as they look to develop as footballers."Follow Kinetic's progress on the official website.