CBeebies has commissioned the new combination live-action/animated series "Footy Pups" (30x15) from Dot to Dot Productions.

Designed to teach children ages 3 to 6 basic sports skills and get them interested in exercise, "Footy Pups" will focus on the U.K.’s favorite sport, football, and be hosted by one of England’s most capped footballers, Arsenal’s Rachel Yankey.

In each episode, Yankey will teach a different skill to a group of children and a team of animated canines called the Footy Pups. Episodes will also follow the pups on a short animated adventure, where they put their newfound skill into practice, competing in an animal league against rival teams such as hippos, ducks and cheetahs.

"Footy Pups" is scheduled to debut on CBeebies this spring.

"Through the Footy Pups’ adventures and Rachel’s simple, fun practice drills and games, young players and viewers alike will learn skills for all sports and for life: imagination, co-ordination, concentration and teamwork,” says Alan Robinson, head of development, Dot To Dot Productions.