Enrichment Week - Football

Monday 18 July 2011

A diverse group of boys from Years 8, 9 and 10 were given the opportunity to spend a week taking part in football training and a premier league club and stadium visit.

The first three days involved the pupils participating in a soccer camp run by Arsenal Soccer Schools. This involved the pupils working as individuals and in teams, performing different drills and games to improve their soccer skills, communication, teamwork and their ability to listen to and learn from a professional football coach. They trained for three days which tested their commitment, discipline, resilience, and their ability to work, even when every muscle in their body was fatigued. There were a lot of tears and sweat but as one pupil, Danny Bishop said, ‘I can barely feel my legs and I have never worked so hard, but it was definitely worth it’.

At 7am on the Thursday morning they boarded the coach to Chelsea Football Club’s training ground where the boys spent the day training with Chelsea’s own professional coaches. A different scene and the vibe of being at one of the best football clubs in the world motivated the boys to train even harder, even in the wet weather. The afternoon was spent playing in an international tournament against Italian, Spanish and Swedish club teams. These were teams that consisted of the potential stars of the future and our three boys’ teams certainly gave them a run for the money.

The final day of a long, but successful week saw the boys training again in the morning. Staggering off the field with blisters and more bruises, the boys tidied themselves up ready to make their way to the legendary Stamford Bridge. The afternoon consisted of a tour of the stadium even down to the privacy of the players changing rooms and lockers.

Mr Schlaefli quizzed the boys on their performances throughout the week whilst they were sat in the Manager, Captain and Player of the Match chairs in the Press Room. Having asked Sam Peare what the best part of the week for him was, he answered simply, ‘The experience of the whole week!’. This was a very successful trip that tested the boys discipline, commitment and individual and team skills and even Miss Pullon, who is an out and out rugby fan, enjoyed herself.

Matt Schlaefli, team leader, reflected ‘The pupils’ demonstrated incredible resilience throughout the week and the learning and progression was exceptional which was evident in their individual and team performances’.

by Kim Pullon

Related Links:

• Arsenal Soccer Schools
• Chelsea FC