We took twenty Year 7 boys for a trip of a lifetime to San Sebastian to develop their skills from a football perspective and for their personal development. Being on tour is more than just playing football, it is a chance for boys to learn about the world around them and develop those key independent skills required for life. A real cultural experience!
The boys trained in preparation for matches, playing two fixtures against Spanish opposition with the club showing amazing hospitality and all matches being played in the right spirit and with the right attitude. The fixtures allowed the boys to reflect and improve, and taught the boys many things linked to the principles of play. They experienced local Spanish cuisine in the form of Pintxos and experimented with and learnt some key Spanish phrases. They also enjoyed a walk around the Old Town in San Sebastian, perusing and purchasing some souvenir gifts, surfing, with a nice hot chocolate afterwards, a beach football tournament and watching a live match of Pelota which is the fastest ball game in the world and second most common game played in the Basque region. One of the greatest highlights was watching a live football match in the Copa Del Rey fourth round – Alaves vs Girona, two of the most up and coming teams in the La Liga. It was the first ever fixture for some of the boys and they will remember it for the rest of their lives. The atmosphere was electric and the game was exceptional with both teams going for it. The match finished 2-2, and the boys can’t wait to see what happens in the second leg on the 5th December in Girona- Vamos Deportivo Alaves!!
I hope all boys can use the experience to improve their skills when we return to football in the spring term. A massive thanks to all who made this happen from the parents, to the supporting staff, MSG tours and for the hospitality we received whilst on tour whether it was from the hostel, the restaurants or the hosts for the fixtures. A special thanks to the boys for all their efforts whilst on tour. Bring on the next football tour!
