Thomas Meunier visits the Epinettes school
On Thursday, the Paris Saint-Germain defender paid a visit to the Epinettes primary school in the 17th arrondissement of Paris, one of the schools in France’s high-priority education network, where around ten children were eagerly awaiting his arrival.
Since these Year 5 and Year 6 pupils had not been able to join the rest of their friends on a residential school trip, Thomas Meunier came along to cheer them up by spending a bit of quality time with them.
Having been told about his visit in advance, the children gave him a warm welcome, with welcome banners they had drawn displayed all around their classroom. With the help of their teacher, they had each prepared a few questions to ask him about his career and his daily life as a professional footballer. Thomas Meunier gave honest answers to the youngsters’ questions. Though they were a bit shy at the beginning, they were quickly put at ease by the player’s relaxed and friendly attitude.
Thomas Meunier said: “I’m always delighted to be involved in Paris Saint-Germain – Children First’s action because it’s my role as a ‘big brother’ to pass on my personal experience and my advice. As Paris Saint-Germain players, we are often idols for these youngsters, who dream about having a bright future in football. Above all, I want to highlight how important it is to go to school and study, as it will enable them to get qualifications and get by in life. I apply these same principles with my own children: education is the key to success.”
So as not to make the other pupils jealous, Thomas Meunier took advantage of his visit to the school to greet the Year 3 and Year 4 classes, who were aware of his visit and joyfully chanted his name in the playground.
The Epinettes school has been linked to Paris Saint-Germain - Children First for the last ten years. Every year, the Foundation’s instructors spend time at the school as part of their professional training.