Bermuda’s aspiring footballers will have an opportunity to “pick the brain” of Shaun Goater at a training camp in Maryland this month.

The former Manchester City striker will coach a group of 25 players from Robin Hood’s youth programme and Bermuda’s Brazilian Football School during camp at Huntingtown High School.

“Shaun brings a new dynamic to the camp,” said Dennis Brown, who is involved with Hood’s youth programme and the BBFS, which is running the camp that is in its fourth year.

“Shaun is one of our most successful professionals to play in England, and the players will be able to get a lot of information from him.

“He is going to do a coaching session and a Q&A, and they can pick his brain while he is there. We hope the players make the most of it.”

Goater is best known for his prolific spell at City, where he scored 103 goals between 1998 and 2003. More than 200 youth players will attend the camp, which runs from July 23 to 27.

During the trip, the youngsters will also visit high schools and colleges in the region and attend DC United’s Major League Soccer match at home to the Colorado Rapids on July 28.

Clyde Best, the former West Ham United striker, will also attend the camp to scout players.

“Last year, Clyde identified a young American and gave him an opportunity to train at West Ham’s academy,” said Brown, a former Bermuda defender. “He is actually there now. Clyde will again identify the best player in the camp and give them an overseas opportunity.”

Coaches from DC United and St Mary University will also attend the camp to scout players.

“DC United have heard about Bermuda’s talent and their director is going to be there,” Brown added.

“We also have a university coach coming over to conduct sessions as well as to look at certain players. It’s not just about the football but also university and high school opportunities.”

Among the local players making the trip is Arnezha Astwood, 16, who helped Hood win the FA Cup last season. He was invited to attend West Ham’s academy but declined in favour of continuing his education in Northwood School, New York, instead.

“West Ham wanted him to come over but his desire is to get his education,” Brown said. I think it’s a good decision.”