More than 40 youngsters, all passionate about football, arrived at the University of Worcester for a day of practical and interactive development opportunities. They were not left disappointed as everyone took part in three workshops – coaching, refereeing and running events – before putting into practice their new and/or developed skills to organise and participate in a tournament in the afternoon session. This resulted in all young leaders getting the opportunity to try something new and learn more about where they could head on their own football pathway.

Workshops were delivered by FA tutors, including WFA staff members Martin Collier (Football Development Officer) and Matthew Jones (Referee Development Officer), as well as FA Skills team coaches Jamie Pitman and Paul Cowie. Alongside this, the Youth Council organised two guest speakers; Ollie Yates (Football League Assistant Referee) and Brian Androlia (a successful businessman with experience of mentoring young people), who facilitated presentations and a Q&A session during lunch.

Young leaders were given free resource packs which supplied them some goodies as well as further information about how they could increase their development and learning through young leadership as part of the Football Futures Programme – a chance to be rewarded for voluntary efforts.

The event was supported by the RA-FA Youth Council, with young leaders who expressed an interest in refereeing given an action plan to begin their journey as an official.

Here are some of the thoughts of those in attendance:

Jimmie (young leader): “I liked the coaching session as it involved both football and coaching which allowed you to relate the session to match situations”

Rhiannon (young leader): “I have had an amazing time; you should definitely do a 2016 camp and give young leaders more opportunities to learn about coaching, refereeing and a chance to meet new friends”

Rhys (young leader): I wasn’t really confident in coming today but I’m glad I came as I’ve enjoyed it a lot”

Jodie (WFA youth council Chairperson): “Today was my last event as WFA youth council Chair & member. End of an era but not the end of my Journey. Thank you for the privilege guys, and a great way to finish!”

Ollie (WFA Football Development Officer): “To see more than 40 young leaders starting or progressing on their young leadership journey at this event, organised completely by the WFA Youth Council, is testament to the importance of young people within football. The challenge now is to continue to provide support to recognise and reward the excellent efforts of those involved in young leadership”

For more information about future young leadership events and the Football Futures Programme please contact: Ollie.Williams@worcestershirefa.com | 01905 827137

To see more photos and young leader opinions from the day you can find us on social media:

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