Bath Primary Schools Football AssociationBath Tourists
Sun, 06/07/2009 - 18:30 — TIMKIRK
The 2008/2009 season saw our upper school age groups travel to Holland, Copenhagen and Ireland. Below are various reports and tales from our experiences:
Under 11/12s Copenhagen Jan 2009
By Max O Leary
Dec 30th 2008 - Tuesday
The team met at Bath for a run through of the training session we were going to do at the conference with Tim. We had to repack our bags, went into Bath for lunch and then drove in convoy to the travel lodge in Stansted – it was freezing! Tim then had meetings with all of us and we had to go to bed early because of the early start.
Dec 31st 2008 - Wednesday
We arrived in Copenhagen and we were knackered after the 4 o'clock wake up!! Flemming, Frederick and some of the Copenhagen parents and players met us at the airport. They took our bags whilst we went to our accommodation by train. Everyone was freezing because of the temperatures (0 C) but at least the trains were warm and on-time!
When we got there we went and saw FC Copenhagen's training pitches, also we went to the sports hall and had a light training session. After showers we went for food and then prepared to stay up all night for the new year! It did not quite work out though as after cards and watching Batman, most of us fell asleep despite the millions of fireworks going off around us – it was like a war zone! Ted, Roger and Paul stayed up all night talking rubbish and familiarising themselves with someone called Carlsberg.
Jan 1st 2009 -Thursday
When we woke up it was 2009! We had breakfast and then got ready for our match against FC Skjold Copenhagen. We got a promising result winning 3-1. It was the first time the team had played together for a while and we did well playing first 9-a-side and then 11-a-side. Dan Demkiv scored as well as Jake Andrews, and Kailan completed the scoring with a close range effort.
The parents of the opposition came back to the school with us and while they cooked us all a meal we played the Danish boys indoors…and won again!
The meal was great and then we played games with the coaches including get the pencil in the bottle and doing something weird with bits of string!
Jan 2nd 2009- Friday
After cleaning up the school we moved to our next accommodation which was at KIES where the conference was being held. Flemming and Frederick then took us for a trip around Copenhagen. It was freezing cold at -8 C and luckily it snowed a bit.
We had a buffet lunch in the town and I even had smoked salmon - my favourite! We visited the Queen’s Palace and had photos with the guards and tried to make him laugh!
The security were not too happy though! We then gave Chay the bumps for his 11th birthday and quickly headed back to the warmth of KIES – it was so cold! We went back and relaxed, watching DVDs. Tim thought we needed to relax, so he fell asleep in front of the DVD while we played indoor football.
That evening we had a game against FC Brondy who are known as the strongest team in the area at U12 level. It was a tight game and an excellent football match with the sides playing intelligently and keeping the ball on the floor. It ended 3-3 with James Barnes, Daniel Demkiv and Alfie Kilgour scoring. Dan could have scored another couple but he has not learned the offside rule at Southampton yet…
Jan 3rd 2009 - Saturday
Today was the start of the Copenhagen International Football Congress and Tim trained us in the dome and loads of people watched. We did lots of different things some individual skills and some small sided games. It was a good session and we all enjoyed it in front of all the people watching.
It was a busy day as we then had a game against Hvidovre IF and we lost 3-2. We started well and the passing was good, showing the Bath schools’ skill. It was 2-2 but in the last quarter we didn’t finish our chances and they ended up scoring to win the match. Scorers this time were me and Zak!
Although we were pretty tired, we were also then excited to have a coach from Real Madrid train us. He spoke good English, he was strict but also funny. We did a one touch drill and a shooting exercise where most of us eventually were able to find the target!
We got back quite late and all slept really well.
By the sound of the noise by the adults, they did not sleep very much as they had invited their friend Carlsberg back again.
Jan 4th - Sunday
We packed up and headed off for our last session at the congress - with the Chelsea coach. The session was on defending and we had to take part in lots of game situations...the defence won!!
Feeling pretty tired, we then gave our luggage to the Danish parents and we headed off empty handed to the airport on the train – travelling in style! Our flight was delayed an hour but it gave us a chance to spend all our money on the things we were not allowed during the tour – Haribo and chocolate! (Kailan had 20 hot dogs)
It was a really busy tour but a fantastic way to start the year. We all played some great football, had some top class coaching (especially from the Bristol City coach!) and enjoyed our stay in Denmark.
Thanks to Tim, Paul, Roger and Ted for taking us and giving us such a good time!
Under 11s Holland April 2009
Day 1
Leaving at ‘horrendous O clock’ wasn’t all that bad…
Actually, boys were great and respected our wishes of remaining silent and getting some sleep until the light appeared. As it happened we arrived very early and got an early train under the Channel; so much easier than the ferry, no projectile vomit for a start!
It was rising into the Calais sauna that really woke us up and after a few pints of water, stripping to reveal their bones we then got stuck in traffic, and to make things interesting the aircon broke. 30 sweaty boys and Jelani’s hot spicy chicken makes for an interesting aroma on an epic bus journey…
However, the boys showed resilience and did not complain (credit to them really, as was unpleasant), although Joe Teall and Jordan Robinson almost had their lives cut short for asking just one too many times, ‘Are we nearly there yet?’
On arrival there was only one thing for it, the pool. All the coaches did a grand job of acting as temporary climbing apparatus for the boys amusement. Poor Shane almost drowned, whilst Darryn managed to undertake his first of many disappearing acts; later found in the Jacuzzi with one eye asleep and the other on the lifeguard.
To celebrate conquering the heat and road miles we indulged ourselves in the Centre parks Buffet despite the outrageous prices (this was the first of many experiences leading me to believe that perhaps the Dutch cannot see pass the windmills tulips and are still unaware of the credit crunch!). Washed and fed, the final challenge of the day was making beds – oh dear. Much evidence of home pampering here: Josh H and Kyle W had particular problems with sheets deciding to wear themselves rather than put them on the duvets! Never has a lumpy, stained mattress been so welcoming.
Ps no chocolate consumption today, but Shane gives into his cola addiction already.
Day 2
Before we start with the football, let’s mention match preparation. We talked at length to the boys about adopting a professional approach to matches, how preparation was key and how rest and good food was needed to perform at the optimal level…enter Sophie the sports therapist. Tom fry and Ben Last, Callum Sellars and Max O Leary did not have the best start when everyone on the coach departing at 0745 discovered that these boys were missing: Sophie had set the alarm for pm instead of am and whilst the 4 boys got extra sleep, breakfast, showers and mental preparation were forfeited for match sticks to prop their eyes open. On the first day we travelled to Venray to watch the Bristol City Under 12s start their competition at 0900. They played well but lost the game owing to missed chances, a pattern which was to repeat itself throughout the day unfortunately for both teams. A quick lunch of the most expensive tomato soup and ham rolls in western Europe, was followed by the eagerly anticipated departure for Sportcamp De Berkte, home of Haps FC. Having anticipated cold weather and even the possibility of snow, it was a lovely surprise to be able to don the sunglasses and splash on the lotion; weather was awesome. Pleasingly, the boys were very mature and rested well between games and drank lots of water without reminder.
The first game was against a Belgian side called FC Sint Kruis Winkel. Starting with a 4-4-2 formation, it was clear that we were going to control the game. Indeed, in the first half our stand in goalkeeper Jordan Robinson did not manage to touch the ball! Some excellent play was not matched by the clinical technique needed to break the back of the net however, and as is often the case in football, a rebounded clearance ended up in the back of our net with minutes to go – coaches on verge of tears at this point, ‘robbery’ was one expression used. An interesting lesson learned was the difference in the tackling allowed on the continent. Amongst others, Toby ‘I never lose a tackle’ Harding was, for example, penalised for numerous excellent challenges because his studs were showing slightly or because he had lunged to get the ball; a worthwhile lesson experienced first hand.
Undeterred, we were pleased that the boys did not let the disappointment linger and they started the second game against a development side from Cambridge United with the type of fury of which even David Moyes would have been proud. The goals soon began to flow including an excellent 8 pass move finished by Jake Andrews’ header. Actually Jake was in inspired form as he set up a goal whilst sitting on his backside, and then tried to chip the keeper from the half way then which then hit the cross bar; the attention of the locals had been grabbed and the Bath Schools’ appreciation fanclub was beginning to take form around us with the crowds growing round the sideline. Game finished 6-0 and a new discovery was found in the shape of the new young Rio Ferdinand aka Alfie Kilgour and a debut goal For Lewis T.
Feeling rampant, expectations were high for the final game against the host club FC Haps. Despite the obvious physical differences between the two teams (poor Gavin and Joe could only stare eye level with the opposition’s knee caps), I was extremely proud of the boys for the manner in which they continued to play excellent football and not show any signs of intimidation. Indeed, we made them look very silly and should have taken the lead after two minutes when Jake fired just wide. Moment of the day came when Jack Moore raced towards a 50:50 challenge in his usual Scrappy Doo rage and shoulder barged the unexpecting 6 foot boy into the nearest hedge; the poor lad did not know what had hit him and emerged with a dusty face from the floor with a look of bewilderment barely seen amongst the youth of today! Although amusing (Shane had to take himself to the toilet to calm down) it was typical of the determination and high tempo of the play we had shown all day despite the hot conditions. Unfortunately, another defensive error led to Haps opening the scoring. Once again, our boys did not show any panic and levelled soon after. At this point I was expecting the flood gates to open with Will Morris, Henry S and Toby Harding all having a good stint in midfield, but then a valuable lesson was to be learned; when playing against bigger players, move the ball so they cannot get near you. The FC Haps players had understandably become quite frustrated by these small urchins from across the channel running round and through their legs, and so they resorted to tougher tactics to try and pull us into line. The result was a couple of injuries for our boys and a sending off for them (thanks to encouragement from Jake to the referee it must be added!). Worst of all we stopped playing the flowing football the growing crowd had come to watch and became embroiled in battle, a battle which we finally lost 2-1 with an unfortunate goal which would certainly make any credible blooper dvd (no blame attached to anyone, just one of those things).
So, end of day 1, two losses and one victory despite having played well and demonstrated some excellent technique and spirit; I really was tempted at this point to call the police to report an outrageous robbery - I hate football sometimes!
To drown our sorrows (City u12s had experienced a similar fate), we raced to the supermarket to replenish supplies and prepare for our evening banquet which the boys were going to prepare under the Dutch setting sun. Burgers, Sausages, chicken, salad, everything was set for an almighty feast with each chalet in charge of preparing a certain aspect of the meal…then disaster struck. On our return we discovered that all barbeques had vanished and that we were too late; the damn Germans had got there before us again (mental note: when abroad near Germans and Dutch, early booking of chairs by the pool, and now barbeque facilities is essential). Faced with the turmoil of satisfying 30 ravenous boys salivating at the mouths, we pulled our sleeves up and barbequed 40 burgers, sausages, and chicken wings in pots over two hobs: surprisingly, no one got poisoned, and the boys received their Michelin stars award.
Day 3
A better start to the day: everyone made it to the bus on time fuelled and raring to go. Once again the weather man was kind to us blessing us with warmth and rays of sunshine. Unfortunately, the Bristol and Bath boys were playing at the same time so we were unable to support each other, and what a shame it was that we were not able to share what was to follow – a real football exhibition! The events of yesterday pitched us up once again the development side from Cambridge. Any worries about weariness were vanquished when the ever-enthusiastic Max Tyson ensured his team mates were awake by bellowing from minute one – top job Max. The game included another superb individual effort from Jake (keeper kicked it long, Jake controlled, dribbled past three and then unleashed a shot from 25 yards into roof of net – special). Joe Selman also completed a dazzling fast run up the wing from the half way line to finish at the near post. Indeed, Joe was in the groove and he made life misery for the numerous left backs who attempted to stop his dribbling and crosses – inspired form. These goals rounded off a top performance and a great way to start the day. Next up was a Dutch side and there was no respite from the continued Bath onslaught. The crowds had gathered once more to watch this team of tiny tots who were clapping and chanting, knocking each other over in the warm up and running rings round boys twice their size. Indeed, attention had switched from the actual games and our boys had the pleasure of a fairly large audience for their warm up even before the game had even started. Once again good play was rewarded with 6 goals – oh why could we have not been so clinical the day before, I asked myself. Big Gav and Kailan also grabbed their tour debut goals with well composed finishes.
Finally, we came across our last opposition, the Dutch side SV Laren. Although not as big as the previous teams played it was clear that we would have to be sharp in order to maintain the current high standard of play. Worringly, the boys began to complain of sore legs and tight muscles so we hoped that a quick stretching session with Shane might prolong the boys’ enthusiasm and ability to compete without risk of injury; poor Scrappy and was the first to fall because of his hamstrings now replaced by tight violin strings. Baby Ben soon followed with a foot injury. However, we need not have worried, another rampant performance, another 7 goals, and another series of accolades from the watching foreign coaches.
By the time we had left the stadium, the boys had been stopped and complimented on their play and attitude – very proud, indeed. On reflection, the play was so good because of the attitude. Such determination, enthusiasm, and team spirit I have not seen in a while from a group of young boys – what a pleasure.
Final standings:
Played 6 Won 4 Lost 2
For 26 Against 4
With the football side of the tour completed, there was only one thing on the boys’ minds – the pool! With Alex and my shoulders still baring the scars from yesterday, we reluctantly immersed ourselves into the cool waters and waited for the circling sharks to strike – still hurting. Any naïve hope that the boys might expend their final energy reserves in the pool and let their coaches come up for air was soon dashed when they insisted on terrorising the neighbours with a version on forest manhunt. Closely averting an international crisis, the boys were summoned to prepare their own feast for the evening. Quick lessons in how to light a fire, make pasta and chop vegetables resulted in a surprisingly edible and flavoursome series of meals across the 6 chalets! The cleaning up operation was completed with slightly less enthusiasm it must be said. The rest of the evening was spent analysing the sporting chronicles of Adam Sandler as the Waterboy.
PS still no chocolate (I think…). Shane buys 16 cans of cola – anyone know a good hypnotist?
Day 4
The boys were allowed to enjoy the comforts of their duvets for an extra hour this morning before rising to greet the cool Dutch air for a sprightly run and stretch (Darryn failed miserably and remained in bed – shame on him!). A well planned and coordinated day trip to Eindhoven was then undertaken – if only. Unfortunately, the stadium was closed as were the shops. However, the day was saved by the discovery of McDonalds (well in the opinion of the boys anyway) and the sight of seeing a series of Bath players suddenly disappear under the locked railings of the PSV stadium – hopefully the CCTV cameras do not pick up the BATH & WILTS printing plastered all over their backs – doh!
The sun was appearing again so Shane, Darryn and Alex wiped away the grease and fat dripping from their chins and the remnants of a Dutch KFC (seriously, how disgusting!) and we raced back to Centre Parcs for more beatings in the pool and a game of 2 touch on the grass. However this was not before we had traipsed to the train station to replenish supplies for dinner from the only establishment open in a 500 mile radius!
Ps Out of the generosity of my heart, chocolate was gifted as a treat after dinner – see I can be merciful.
So, that was more or less it. I am sure the boys will have their own version of events and their own experiences which they managed to hide from my prying senses, but I am of the impression that a good time was had by all. Honestly, it was an enjoyable extended weekend and all the coaches have remarked at what a pleasure it has been to spend time with this group of boys and be part of a special experience for them. They have taken more responsibility for themselves, learned to take their place within groups big and small, and they have been exposed to new cultures…and all this without a single tear.
And so I must thank the boys for their cooperation and their promise to fulfil their part of the deal; giving the tour their all. In addition, I must thank the parents for trusting us to deliver this experience, and for supporting our wishes whilst abroad as well as supporting the tour financially. Last but not least, I would like to publicly acknowledge Shane Kiely, Damian Hodge and Alex Ball who all willingly tore themselves away from family during this festive period to be with the boys –their contributions have been invaluable this weekend.
As is appropriate a final word goes to the boys. It is difficult to quantify in words or monetary value just how much they would have gained from this weekend, but I am confident that the numerous laughs, the exhaustion, the excitement, the disappointment and other moments and emotions will emerge and help in their development as good people as well as good players.
Under 10s Holland May 2009
Day 1 – tears and joy
Departure 0400 The Sulis Club, Bath
This second dire wake up call in a month at such an unsavoury hour was, I am sure, not particularly welcomed by many of the parents. However, many thanks must be expressed to those making the effort to be at the Sulis Club; shame not all could make it on time…
Yes, the shame Mr Li. With boys in tears at the thought of being separated from their dear parents, and the parents in tears because they wanted to go back to bed, we had to endure the wait for Mr Li’s arrival. When it became clear that Mr Li had in fact got one over on us all by having an extra hour in bed, there was only one thing for it; to park in his drive with a 52 seater coach – I am sure the neighbours were pleased.
And then the excitement began. The boys continued their excellent record of mass shut eye until we dropped off one grumpy driver and replaced her with another one at Membury – what is it with coach drivers and their generic good conversation and good manners deficiency?! Although to be fair to Pete (our Australian driver), he must have been secretly cursing his luck when within half an hour he came within millimetres of the first projectile vomit of the tour. Indeed, we thought it would be a good idea to place the ailing members of the team at the front of the bus with Shane. How wrong we were. Such a scene I have rarely witnessed as a mixture of what looked like radioactive waste hurtled at tremendous speed past our noses, narrowly missing the driver but instead, consumed poor Arthur’s fresh lunch – uhm tasty…
It was then Shane’s turn, whose role as trip nurse was consequently called into question, to ‘let the chunks fly’ and the coach toilet was swiftly banned from use by any person…forever. Apart from these minor incidents, the rest of the journey passed without major incident, although there is one final aspect of the epic voyage which must be revealed, and it has to do with questions. Now, I am a fairly patient person, but I must say we have never come across anyone who asks as many questions as William Norcrosse. Thankfully, he was threatened with having to pay for his asking privileges and I am now a much richer person; Mr Norcrosse, however, might not be so happy when he receives my wage demands having answered in excess of two hundred thousand questions.
France, Belgium, and then finally Holland 1700 local time. The Centre Parcs at Het Heijderbos has the reputation as being one of the finest in Europe, and it did not disappoint. Gorgeous sunshine, lush forests, Dutch female staff…
However, being such an attractive resort has its down side – it is popular. The car park was so full it would even rival Honda’s backyard of mounting unsold vehicles, and this meant a trek across half of Holland in order to get to our chalets. Unsurprisingly, the first demand from the ankle biters was to immerse themselves in cold water and throw themselves down dangerous looking ravines. Paul, Ray and I kept a watchful eye on the shore of the ‘bay’, Shane stayed behind to recover from his gut wrenching displays (actually with the kids away, he wanted to work out the best Dutch TV channels whilst feeding his coke habit (coca cola that is) and ended up breaking the TV!), and Phil mysteriously could not find the pool but managed to find the bar, uhm…
Not feeling desperately keen to sample the kids’ efforts in the kitchen just yet, we decided on a nutritional pre-match meal of…burgers, chips and soda. And that was it, 2200. Just enough time to make the beds (why are little boys so incompetent with bed sheets – I blame the mothers!), and then lose ourselves to dreams of European glory…
Day 2 – the footy begins
Wake up call at 0730. Some very weary children traipsed to the kitchen and managed to make breakfast before washing up and then packing bags – that’s right, they did manage themselves and no one forgot anything, incredible I hear you cry!
The weather was fantastic! Well over 25 degrees and not a cloud in the sky.
The arrival at the clubhouse confirmed to us once again what a shambles we are in England at grassroots level. With more pitches than I could count on both hands, various sizes of pitches all fenced off, a lovely club house with a real community spirit, 3g astros and 12 changing rooms, I should not have been surprised to discover that this club (whose facilities would rival any Academy in the country) belonged to a team who plies their trade in the 7th division of Dutch football! That’s lower than Bath City. Anyway, that’s a discussion for another day.
All changed and ready to go, the teams were split into two 7-a-side groups with both applying a formation of 2 in defence, 3 in midfield and one forward. This was then mixed with a 2-2-2 formation depending on the need to exploit areas of space. Despite all the new faces in team 1, they got off to a great start by dominating proceedings and winning 3-0 goals coming from
Unfortunately, team 2 did not get off to the best start when they were undone by an English team impersonating Stoke City (Premier league, you’re having a laugh!) Our area was bombarded with numerous long throw ins and our resilience was eventually broken as we went down 2-1 despite dominating the play. Certainly, I had that sinking feeling of de-ja-vu from our last Dutch experience.
I need not have worried, however, as both teams then turned on the style by racking up the goals and drawing crowds from afar. Indeed, agents from FC Twente and PSV Eindhoven proceeded to offer invitations too attend further tournaments normally exclusive to the 1st division clubs in Holland and Belgium – well done boys!
Sublime moments included Nathan Cridge’s backheel tackle, Ben Griffith’s squeeze turn which sent 2 players in completely the wrong direction, Toby’s narrow escape of a red card (referees here do not like our light weight champion), Dan Restorick’s, Arthur Warren’s and Sam Ryan’s debut goals, Milo’s waving locks as he caressed the ball out of defence, the mini-men Alex and Ben S terrorising the opposition in both defence and attack, and Will Norcrosse’s last minute clincher to see us through to the final stages of the tournament on Sunday. Best news of all was the mysterious Dutch lady who offered to wash our kit that night having been so bowled over by our boys’ play and manners…or was it Shane’s pasty legs that caught her eye.
Sadly for us there were a few embarrassing moments when other visiting English teams let themselves down with moments of madness by antagonising our hosts and using bad language – what is it with Brits abroad and football?! One of the most memorable aspects I will take home from this experience was the behaviour of the Dutch parents and coaching staff. The parents chatted amongst themselves and quietly applauded both teams – no shouting, no emotions. The coaching staff were supportive and discussed the games with us openly at the end to summarise the events – thoroughly enjoyable.
A late return from the tournament meant that the boys could not fulfil their number one aim in life to go to the swimming pool, so instead they began the exciting process of preparing the evening meal. A slight complication arose when a trip to the supermarket revealed a distinct lack of disposable barbeques. Never fear though, I was a Sea Scout once and have all the survival skills necessary to survive in the outback…So we brought some coal and made our own. It only occurred to us as the flames rose under the canopy of the forest that such natural barbeques on the forest floor might be slightly illegal in such a park, but with 32 ravenous boys awaiting feeding the chance was worth taking. In fact, the boys put in an accomplished performance and all ate like young princes under the now smoke-filled Dutch sky and the setting sun.
The day’s awards then followed. Moment of the day was given to Nathan for his tackle, Donut of the day to Ben for his numerous comical escapades in front of goal, and top tourist to Jacob for his outstanding contribution to team and community spirit.
Looking forward to the finals tomorrow, the boys scribbled in their diaries and then promptly hit the sack; we must be blessed to have been given the charge of such delightful and affable children who obeyed every wish with enthusiasm and a smile!
Day 3 - Final footy day
The sharp removal of the chalet’s curtains revealed another scorching day outside, and quite a few disgruntled faces inside – we have some reluctant risers for sure! However, once free of their cocoons the boys were hungry for football as well as a gourmet breakfast.
The hour’s journey to Arnhem allowed us to contemplate the day ahead and it must be said that both teams were confident of progressing in the tournament. Unfortunately, both teams were to play at the same time which meant that we were unable to support each other.
1030 local time
Team 1 were to face Pegasus from Hereford, Team 2 to face Chadderton Park from Manchester. Both teams had beaten us yesterday and although we complained bitterly and discussed excuses at length, this was not the opportunity to put things right. Team 2 got off to a super start and did not allow Chadderton to venture for more than what can only be described as ‘fleeting glances’ into our defensive territory; James was so bored in goal that we promptly switched him so he good taste some action. In addition, Callum and Will both raced forward down the wings with Liam showing all his trickery to pepper the opposition’s goal. And so job done, 4-0 and a wonderful performance. Team 1 did not, however, hit the floor running. A shock to the system caused by some woeful defending in the first 10 minutes resulted in a quick 3 goal deficit. Fortunately, the lights were then switched on and the comeback began. Obviously feeling generous though, team 1 did not want to score, even passing the opportunity to covert from less than a yard out as the ball squirmed agonisingly under Sam’s foot as it was crossed from the right. Never mind, the next game would be a true test of character for these boys.
Team 1’s second game was against Chadderton Park. Shane suggested someone punch the long throw specialist before the game, but deciding this was possibly not the most appropriate strategy, we resorted to pure footballing class to overcome the threat. Now playing George in his more familiar defensive position after using his skills in every other part of the field for four games, George became the rock the team had been crying out for (In typical managerial fashion, Shane insists and if he had known George was a defender we would have won every game). In adopting a new 2-2-2 formation team 1 was rewarded with an excellent 3 –1 win with goals from Jacob, Arthur, and Sam. More importantly some of the passing was outstanding and because of the threat of the long ball throw-ins from Chadderton the boys showed their skill by keeping possession and only giving away one throw in all game.
Team 2 continued their good form with a renouncing demolition of cup favourites Pegasus. Having beaten the other team 3-0 in the first game of the day, team 2 was keen to dish out some sweet revenge, and that they did. A healthy Dutch crowd gathered to see Toby’s army give the young boys from Hereford a footballing lesson. Once again Liam was on fire scoring 3 goals and Will topped off a brilliant performance with a lovely goal to finish. 5-0 eventually the score and the Welsh were on their knees.
And so the final game – the clash of the titans! Both Bath teams had to play each other and so the shape, team selection and substitutions were left to the two captains Toby and Chris. It was team 1 who took the lead through a marvellous effort from Jacob, only for Liam to equalise. We were then treated to some of the best goals of the tournament as Will Morris smashed one in from far out, which was then cancelled out by another great finish from Liam in the last 10 seconds. And so it was confirmed, team 1 were champions and team 2 finished 3rd out of 8. Great effort from both squads.
And that was the football. The Dutch kids were particularly impressive in their conduct as well as ball skills, the environment was amazing and it’s no wonder the local players have such good control and command of the ball. There were around 10 pitches including a whopper Astro, nifty stands and seating areas, decent amount of shade and protection from the elements should the weather take a turn for the worse. And true to the Dutch landscape each pitch was perfectly flat, so we all looked on with envy and wondered why on earth don’t we have this at home.
1700
The boys abstained from a tour of the city in an open-top bus and decided to go and release hell in the pool. Of course this was the perfect opportunity for the staff to catch up on the day’s events over refreshments on the balcony of the dome whilst also watching grown men in black and white shirts with Geordie accents cry openly in defeat. Bye bye Newcastle, hello Burnley – enjoy it whilst it lasts… The boys were naturally oblivious to this Premiership drama and continued to give the lifeguards the run-around for a good two hours!
And then came one of life’s harsh lessons: integrity is a quality not shared by all and so possessions left unguarded can swiftly vanish – especially in such a public arena as a swimming pool. Both Tom and Nathan must be pretty loaded though as the event was soon forgotten and pasta making became more significant.
The last Supper…
It has not been possible to capture every magical moment that has occurred on tour and believe me there have been many. Indeed, the nature of such lovely moments are so spontaneous and special that it is better that they are confined to memory. For example, baking pasta is an activity one would think would require minimum effort and little thought. Well, this was not the case as even boiling water became a challenge – do these boys do nothing at home?! Quite hilarious moments happened and all because of a few carbohydrates, who would have though it? So, after the food, it was time for the chains to be released and a little freedom to be enjoyed amongst the trees.
Forest man hunt is a spectacle which Sky would do well to investigate broadcasting. With boys running into closed glass doors, others flying through the air having not seen protruding roots and stumps, and branches whipping in fury anyone passing too close, this is a truly hilarious albeit slightly treacherous activity.
Final meeting
Phil finally received his Donut award for trying to brush his teeth with anti-septic cream (please don’t try that at home kids), and Toby got his bib and dummy for the worst attempt at a dive that has ever been witnessed in European football. What is worse is that the referee actually fell for it and awarded the free kick – even our players complained to him what a blatant travesty of justice this was! Packing was successfully completed in a record time, the chalet was put back to its original order and then just as the boys had done the previous two nights, blissful sleep was achieved within minutes of the heads hitting the pillows. Could this be the easiest tour, ever?!
Final word
When contemplating the success of any adventure like this, it is always good to remind oneself about that first minute the boys arrive, that moment before departure. That aura of raw excitement and honest apprehension can create a vacuum of expectation from players and parents and one hopes that the experience will be rich enough. This all depends of course on the boys themselves. Our main message is, ‘you will get out of this, what you are willing to put in’, a message which we have repeated all season. Thus, there is a great sense of pleasure and pride when thinking about what the boys achieved in these short few days. Once again, not one tear was shed, not one mention of the M or D word was uttered, and although responsibility is still a word they cannot spell, it is one they can now understand and relate to. In short, the boys were fantastic, much better than I had anticipated in every manner considering their tender ages; and all this without thinking of the excellent football. They have maintained our excellent reputation and won us yet more fans and friends. More importantly, their courage to travel and learn has opened their eyes to new possibilities and new expectations which will undoubtedly help them in the future. Many thanks boys, you have been stars.
It is not by chance that I mention the staff last. Without their care and time, such opportunities would not exist. Although the boys are responsible for shaping the success of the tour, it is the adults’ responsibility to aid the direction of their development without spoiling it and degrading the experience, whilst keeping them safe. Having worked with many teachers, coaches, and parents who deal with kids on a day-to-day basis, I can honestly say that this is an art which not many people in these fields actually achieve. Indeed, if Shane and Paul could bottle the qualities they show in dealing with the boys, they would be very rich men indeed. So, my thanks go to them in particular for being the wonderful ambassadors of learning that they are.