During the half term week, on Wednesday 25th and Thursday 26th October, I was at an event ran by the FA to showcase the different roles in football that young people, like myself, may take up now or in the future. Initially, we were split into six groups and were given a chance to bond with our group and meet different people, additionally each group was led by three event guides who are members of the FA National Youth Council or Regional Youth Network, their aim is to empower young people to aspire to support the game.
On the first day, we had a more practical, get your hands dirty activity day, with six 45 minute sessions covering different aspects of football : Coaching, refereeing, strength and conditioning, how to run your own club, youth leadership and interacting with the county FA.
The second day was more classroom and discussion based with a couple of the young leaders running two workshops. The first one was teaching us how to be a good role model and the qualities and skills a good leader should have and helping us develop qualities in ourselves. The second one taught us about trust and in any role in football being trustworthy is critical to be successful, to build strong relationships and to help encourage others.
My personal experience was amazing, I felt like I got a greater understanding of my characteristics and qualities that will help me improve in both football and life, furthermore it gave me real insight as to want I may want to do to take football further and have a serious role in the game.
My favourite moment would have to be the refereeing workshop, it was great fun and interactive and got everyone involved, yes, even the event guides! Overall a great couple of days and a big thank you to the FA, Wiltshire County FA and Swindon Supermarine FC for hosting and help facilitate inspiring young people into the football workforce.