The Football Futures Effect

When I joined the Football Futures programme I never dreamt of reaching the heights which I have. Travelling the country, being a part of national programmes and events. I've collected many hours, but since realised; it's not about counting the hours, but making the hours count.

I'm so incredibly proud of all I've achieved, nothing more than the personal challenges which I've created, overcome and continue to put in front of myself. Spotting a problem and wanting to do something about it. Wanting to improve my eye contact and doing just that. Now I want to 'relax' in the sense of not being stressed or worried. Aimed more so at the coaching environment, but its something which will benefit my everyday life.

Football Futures: it's not about how many games are won, events attended or hours collected; but how many young people you help to become winners in life.*(AW) FF goes further than the white lines on the pitch, further than developing people capable of working in football, but people capable of taking on life.

"You can get rid of the football bit, it's about futures." Roger Davies, 2013. 

In coaching, running events, refereeing, we are dealing with people. 100% people, they should all have the chance to play football or at least be a part of it, even if less than 1% make it to the professional stage. The same goes for young leaders, or should we say young people? All of us having chances to be challenged, to enjoy ourselves as we'll as working with others. 

Who's to say that learning stays within the 6 Football Futures topics? Or even just revolves around football? The programme might have a title, but that's not the entire topic, the programme is so much more. 

Life skills are found and used. Ask any young leader across the country and I'm sure they will say how FF has benefitted their confidence. Confidence to blow a whistle, put forward ideas, take charge. This confidence is grown from grassroots, just like football. If you don't plant the seed how can you expect the grass to grow. If its not in the best environment for that seed, how can it's growth be sustained. As we keep watering it, it will get bigger. The more seeds we plant, the more grass we get. 

Every seed is a spark of confidence, after some time, you will have a field. But make sure you have enough to look after. An acre of grass takes a long time to mow. 

The football futures programme doesn't give out grass, but the opportunity to plant seeds. 

Other skills such as communication and organisation, transferable skills which can be used in more ways than setting up a tournament. Adaptability, creativity, being under pressure. Being put into challenging situations where a thought process and initiative is the key to success. I hope it's visable that the named skills are life skills, used in everyday life, the work place, with friends.. EVERYWHERE! 

Football Futures provides opportunities for these skills to be gained and used, of course these are just a select few. Opportunities to put ourselves to the test. Find out new ways to do things, and things about ourselves which may never have been uncovered. 

The programme has allowed me to meet hundreds of people across the country who are on the programme and working within football and sport. People who have a want to improve themselves as people as well as young leaders. To makes numerous contacts within the sporting world. 

Most importantly, FF has allowed me to meet some amazing people who have become my friends. I no longer go to events worrying about who else is there. But go with a buzz of excitement to be reunited with these people and spend the day with them and catch up. We really are all starting to be a part of the Football Futures Family. 

They aren't just friends but role models, teachers, mentors, coaches, motivators and supporters. How fantastic that this programme has influenced and given the opportunity for young people to fulfil these roles and become so influential on their peers. Creating more than just 'football friends,' but people who make up my everyday life. 

So many other young people have a want to improve them-self, and also other around them. Challenging each other, looking out for new opportunities. People who have a genuine care for each other. My twitter and Facebook feed is built up with young leaders across the country. I get to read about what my peers are doing, sharing their success and learning curves. 

There are ideas of creating a network of young people by using youth councils, but it's already happening. Young leaders creating a vibe, a culture, travelling further than their county FA.

Experiences are shared everyday. What's amazing is the link between young and experienced young leaders. We are always leaning, always. Older leaders are able to help, support and pass on their knowledge. Inspiring the inspirational to go on and be the best they can be to create a stronger force.

A great thing I saw on a Durham FA video showcased the link between every young leader. Even after travelling the country, even the world, scholarships and experiences, we're all young leaders/volunteers.. The FF Programme brings everyone together in the world of football. 

Learning to deal with people, understand we are developing personalities as well as abilities, our own as well as those around us. 

Is football really just a game? Is Football Futures really just a programme?

It's difficult to sum up and express how the programme has influenced so many people. There are success stories all across the country. Opportunities for everyone, no matter how many are churned out it is down to us as young leaders to take them and make the most of everything to be the best people we can be.

"We're all part of a wonderful programme that goes beyond playing football." John Heathcote

*original quote, 'what's important is not how many games you win, but how many young people you help to become winners in life' Martens. 

Happy clapper? Or a positive thinker?

Recently I've done a bit of reading, as recommended by my coaching mentor I read 'The Chimp Paradox' and then i found 'The Art of Being Brilliant.'  2 books about the way we think, and how to think. 

The chimp paradox which explains how we've got a chimp in our mind which hijacks our thinking without us even knowing. Through routes of management, you can contain this 'chimp' and work with your 'human' brain. 

The Art of Being Brilliant, I can best describe it as a slap in the face in a book. Common sense written in black and white, but it's eye capturing and draws you in from the first word. A book which makes you smile as you read, and beyond... Isn't that just brilliant? 

So you're wondering why I'm chatting on about books when this is my FF blog. Well here it is, after reading these two books my mindset has been changed. No, I'm not trend following, copying an opinion, or anything like that. I'm making a change which will benefit myself and those around me. A conscious change which is entirely my decision every day. 

I'm going to aim for the 2% club, trying to squeeze that 2% above happy.. How do I do that? By being positive from day to day. Is that being a happy clapper? No I don't think so, it's being positive, taking ownership of the down days and making them better for myself and those around. 

Sure, being positive takes effort.. But if that effort leads to a happier (much more than content) me and more effective when in the company of others then surely it's well worth it. 

Let me out this into a FF and football context. I live a lot of my time worrying, stressing and getting frustrated... For what avail? Nothing, the same aim is still hit, the deadlines don't move and kids still need coaching. If I'm stressed all the time, worried about reaching my dream then I'm going to miss out on the journey. This emotion will rub into my social life and skills and that will be the message which I portray. That's actually terrible, the positive messages and effect I want to have is clouded by my own emotions. 

Spinning this around, nerves and stress is a part of life. Something to be accepted. Instead do waking up each day negatively minded about the day ahead, wake up with a smile and accept the challenge ahead. 

The Team16 launch was the best event which I've been a part of, I was positive throughout the day, attacked every challenge with a smile and could see my enthusiasm rubbing off into everyone else. I knew the event was huge and had a lot riding on it, but negativity wouldn't help anyone or the event.

So the feeling I had all day of the launch has stayed with me, and one which I want to last longer than every now and then. One which I know how to create, and will create. It starts with me, wanting to be positive. Consciously choosing to be happy everyday, making the most of everything. Attacking every challenge knowing that it has to be done, I can't do better than my best - so I may as well do it with a smile and a 'PMA.' 

Day 1 after finishing 'The Art of Being Brilliant' was today. What did I do today? Spent my morning with Lancashire FA Tesco Skills Team at a Girls Skills Festival. Time to put things into practice. I woke up, excited, not nervous. Prepared, not stressed. I've worn my smile out, it's been on public display all day. Guess what? I've had the most fantastic, super duper day. Enjoyed every minute and every task. 

Lets be honest, when working with 5-11 year olds there is no room for negativity. But a let up in enthusiasm would be noticed. I've spent my day with a coaches mind in a child's body. Made a number of kids laugh and smile along with helping them to develop their skills. Who's decision was it to be positive today? Mine. 

Happy clapper? Not a chance. Sure future days might not be the same, but with the same approach I will be happier in every walk. every journey. everyday. 

National Youth Futsal Festival (28/29/30 June 2013)

Friday 28th June, I rocked up to Wellington train station ready to hit Birmingham for the weekend. Still fuelled on the excitement from the TEAMSIXTEEN launch, I headed to the Futsal arena early to help set up. 

After meeting up with Jazz Hervin at the train station we swept across the city with excitement, wondering what the weekend would have in store for us... Pumping up 40 odd footballs and unpacking bibs wasn't the expected start. But the overwhelming venue certainly put the event into perspective. Walking into the main arena, looking out onto 8 Futsal pitches was eye opening. I started to realise how big of an event this was going to be. 

 The setting up process wasn't as hectic as I was expecting. The electronic pump certainly helped. But  following this, our jobs finished after pinning up registration signs and Futsal advertising boards... Which meant an early finish! 

Rocking back to the hotel the rain started to pour, and pour! Good job the whole event was going to be indoor! Checking in was a fun process, made even better by the receptionist say that I and Jazz were going to be sharing a bed, not just a room! Good job she realised what she had said, there were 2 beds in the room. Phew! 

Tea time soon came when we were joined by Lauren Asquith and Sarah Lowden who were also working at the event. Salmon, Chicken and Chocolate fondant was on the menu. You could tell who the young ones were, each of us leaving the parcel of vegetables with the chicken. 

The final event of the night as a group was a part of what I'd call, mental preparation.. The pub, Sacks of Potatoes! Luckily Lauren was allowed in! :) A good end to the day, and a great start to the weekend.

Saturday morning soon rolled over, leaving the alarm snooze as long as possible. Breakfast at 7, full English, glass of milk and my favourite cereal... corn flakes, milk and sugar. 

Arriving back at the Futsal Arena, the advertising boards were all up and around pitches, spectator stands in the empty areas, music blaring, excitement building. Jobs were given out for the day, I was pitch manager in pitch 6! I was then wired up with a microphone and radio.. Feeling quite big time! Teams started arriving, after looking down the list of teams, I recognised a few names and a number of the coaches who came in. Fantastic for Shropshire to have such a high number of representatives! 

All of the teams had arrived, pitches were set, referees ready... Lets play ball! 

 

 

The first day held U10s and U12s, both boys and girls, 10 teams within each age group. 11 minute games, no penalties until the semis and finals. The banter with the referees was great, very nerve settling. I was still feeling overwhelmed with the size or the event. The level of planning and scale of the tournament was a little be frightening.. naturally I didn't want to put a step wrong.

As the games got flowing, and I wasn't' racing around chasing teams I was able to enjoy the futsal being played on my pitch. Some fantastic players and ability on show, really proving how valuable futsal can be. And also how great the game looks when played properly. Teams were always ready for the next game, great for me and also the tournament meaning it could run smoothly and to time.

Although it was a long day, the games fed from one into the other and passed really quickly. The semis and finals soon came around. The trophies were put out on show so teams could see what they were playing for. At pitch 6 we had the girl's finals, Writtle Minors Girls vs.St Anne’s Rovers Community FC [U10s] and Farsley Celtic Girls vs. Carshalton Athletic Girls [U12s]. Neither final went to penalties. 4 teams who I hadn't seen play all day put on 2 lively finals where either of the teams could have won. But even that this age of futsal, you can see the harsh realities of sport. That fine line between winning and losing.

A fantastic first day finished with the handing out of the trophies, unbelievable sized cups which were nearly as tall as some of the players. After the teams has left we finished off for the day with a team meeting and then headed back to the hotel and the pub for a cider to celebrate. 1 down 1 to go!
Another round of chicken for tea, but no chocolate fondant. Only 2 left and I didn't shout dibs quick enough! We returned to the pub before bed, another long day was ahead of us. 2 different age groups, new ways to play the game and more players hungry for success!


So day 2 of the tournament, started early again, more teams to rota through the doors, more futsal to be played. Another crop of teams and coaches recognisable from Shropshire, fingers crossed for a home county winner!!
A change of roles for a couple of us, I was moved from pitch manager to photo accreditation. A role I took up by choice to allow another young leader the chance to experience the tournament from the touch line.

 

For me, I was busy for the first couple of hours. As teams, parents and supporters rolled in they came across to pick up their wristbands to allow them to take photos. After that first rush I only had maybe 10 people come across to see me. A boring job? maybe, but one which has to be done. 

The positive, my table looked straight onto pitch 2, so when parents weren't stood directly in front of me I got the chance to watch a bit of Futsal. Again, some great young players and teams on show, as you would expect with them being in the 10 top teams in the country. 

 

Day 2 showcased U14 and U16 boys and girls Futsal. Older age groups, more serious competition and hopefully a higher standard of Futsal. It was great, as a coach myself, to wander around a little and see different tactics being used; pass and move, long ball, goal hangers. At no point did I think, 'this looks like a typical 5-a-side.' Sure the rules are slightly different, but it's almost a different sport. Like the view a ref takes on a law, the different interpretations of Futsal are fantastic. 

 

As with anything, the older age group did bring a few more questions regarding referee's decisions. But that was to be expected, after all, they can only ever please 50% of players. 

 

As the day flew by, the tournament heated up. Parents looking at the score board and kids enjoying their Futsal. Teams went home and others pushed on, semis and finals drew closer and a certain Shropshire team were looking likely to qualify for the later stages. My job was nearly done for the day so I was able to enjoy watching the semis and finals. 

 

I watched both of the girl's finals, 2 good games of football where again either team cold have won. The U16s game being decided on penalties, the winners were TNS, a local team to me.. Turns out I was caught celebrating when they won their semis. 

The trophies were handed out and photos taken, the day had finished and the tournament ended. Our job was nearly complete with only the microphones to take off balls to collect.

Over 1,800 teams have been a part of the national tournament, but the winning teams and runners up were:

U10 Boys 

Winners: Woodside Youth       

Runners-up: Sproatley Juniors

U10 Girls 

Winners: Writtle Minors Girls   

Runners-up: St Anne’s Rovers Community FC

U12 Boys 

Winners: The Oxford Academy  

Runners-up: AC Finchley

U12 Girls

Winners: Farsley Celtic Girls      

Runners-up: Carshalton Athletic Girls

U14 Boys

Winners: Eastbury Comprehensive  School  

Runners-up: St John Fisher Catholic College

U14 Girls

Winners: Rainham School for Girls  

Runners-up: Tottenham Hotspur Ladies

U16 Boys

Winners: Escolla

Runners-up: Birmingham Futsal Club

U16 Girls

Winners: The New Saints FC         

Runners-up: Arnold Hill

 

Just a few post event thoughts to conclude; on such a big event, it's so important to have a strong front. If things go wrong, or problems occur.. Which they did, you've got to be able to carry in as if nothing has happened. The professional approach to the event by all of us helped us to overcome the problem and 'keep clam and carry on.' 

I saw so many players, playing with a smile, enjoying the competition. After the U12 girl's finals, there were more parents celebrating than players. A shame that parents feel the need to take over the player's successes. I saw coaches screaming at players, is that necessary? 

From the weekend I can take forwards the level/standard to aim at whenever i put on tournaments or approach events. I hope that I will work at events of this size again and many more Futsal events. This may have been the first, but hopefully not the last. The skills I've learnt and used during my time on the Football Futures programme certainly came to hand over the weekend.

A super weekend in Birmingham drew to a close. A fantastic opportunity for myself to work on a huge event. I've not worked on anything that size before. My nerves before hand were shaken off early on, I thought it was too big time, but my experiences and work ethic pulled me through. I met up with and worked with a number of great people, young leaders from across the country. County and National FA staff who I've not met before, but hope to work with again. I thank everyone involved for allowing me to be a part of the National Youth Futsal Festival. This achievement of being selected to work on it shows the heights of where volunteering can take you, how much can be achieved through Football Futures, where the journey can lead. 

Read more at http://www.thefa.com/News/my-football/small-sided-football/futsal/2013/jul/futsal-thrills-and-spills.aspx#uB6SCsq52H2dykt8.99 

TEAMSIXTEEN

Just over a year and a half after launching Team19, a new initiative for school football has been launched by the FA. This one aimed at secondary school kids, setting up a new format of football where it is run by kids for kids. Today's launch marks a huge step in the development of football and the new child centred approach. 

Getting up at 6.00am this morning wasn't pleasant, but a lot more exciting than waking up at 5am for work. Rocking up to St.George's Park for the launch lit the adrenaline to keep me going for the day, the arrival of 6 schools and a whole host of VIPs also rattled my nerves.

Fortunately the smiley faces of my Football Futures friends were there upon arrival along with Sean Smith (ISFA) and Steve Swallow (FA). 

Straight down to work and pumping up goals to get prepared for the launch, but then we hit our first snag, one of our goals had a fault, a hole.. Meaning it deflated minutes after going up. But like all good organised events, there was a plan in hand, we had hockey goals available! Little did I know, the SGP staff weren't kidding when they said how heavy they were!! To settle my mood for the day, I got to play on the electronic wheelchairs in the backroom.. I think that alone shows why I don't drive a car! 

With the goals up, pitches set and players warmed up.. the launch festival was ready to go. A first hearing off Steve Swallow to open the event to the schools and then myself to explain the rules and get things going. Already, a ridiculous level of responsibility had been handed over to us young volunteers to run and lead the tournament. 

One point was put in at the beginning, after each team had played 1 game, the teams could make changes to the tournament, any that they felt necessary or that they wanted to see. 

As games got underway and the practical side of the launch got started, the official launch took place in the luxury of the Hilton Hotel. The initiative opened up and explained to the VIPs, national FA Staff and members of other national bodies within sport. They were given a briefing of how TEAMSIXTEEN will work and what they are investing in. 

Back in the Futsal arena/hall games were underway, goals were being scored and players were enjoying themselves. I did my best to enthuse players and supporters by dancing and jumping around with foam hands on alongside helping to run the festival. I'd like to think that I did a half decent job at making people laugh and smile :D 

After the first few games, the players did change a few things around. The girls added in throw ins, made the pitch bigger and asked only to play with a pink ball.. apparently the colour of the ball, made a huge difference to their performance. The boys asked to swap their game times so that they could go and support the girls when they weren't playing. They added in a half time, and said you could only score from a header or volley from within the goal area. Some pretty big changes, especially the fixture changes. The schools each brought a girls and boys side, they boys wanted to be able to support the girls when they weren't playing, instead of playing parallel games.

This already, at the launch event showing the power of young people, already taking control of the initiative and playing how they want to. After all isn't that what youth football is all about?

Towards the end of the festival you could feel the enjoyment, the sense of responsibility from the players, not just us volunteers. During the first few games coaches/teachers were in control of substitutes and what was going on. During the last few games, no teachers were seen on the touch line.. but in the stand watching. Players had control of subs, formations and pretty much every decision was their own. I even had a player tell me off for standing behind the goal, she told me it was the rule. 

As the festival drew to a close and the VIPs arrived for a nose around, players were having a laugh, doing a conga around the hall, and supporting other teams they met only hours earlier. It's such a wonderful game which we have the opportunity to work in, brings so many people together, creates so many memories and friendships. After such a fantastic morning, it felt sad that games were running out and that it had to draw to a close. 

 

During my own moment of reflection, I thought about how much the event changed by the players alone. This is day 1, just think of what there is to come. The festival was run by young people for young people, sure most of us are Football Futures young leaders, but again doesn't that just show football can change and develop people. Bar Steve's opening speech, no adult had any influence on the festival. Just us young leaders, refereeing, collecting score cards, adding up scores, sorting pitches, warm ups, being around to bring life into the festival. 

On a personal note, unbelievable to think that the Team19 speech I had was nerve wracking I didn't look up once; to being a huge part in opening the event and being so open all day by dancing, making people laugh and talking to anyone and everyone. It put a huge smile on my face, standing for a second and thinking about the influence I had on today's event and the response from the kids.

No one told me to lead briefing to the volunteers, players and teachers. I took it upon myself. I've learnt that I have to relax and enjoy the event for it to rub off onto the players. Sure I will have looked a fool for the first 10 minutes, and most of the day, but I had a fantastic time and wanted it to rub off onto everyone else.

At the end of the festival, the winning teams were announced.. To which I can't remember. But does that really matter? All of the players finished with smiles on their faces. They were a part of the official launch and have already shown the power of young people within football. It's their game, let them play it in the way they want.

 

Minutes after closing the launch, the hall was deserted. Players, volunteers and VIPs had vacated the area and headed for Burton Albion FC to watch England Ladies versus the current world champions Japan! Before I could head off for the game, I and a couple of others were left to close down the event fully by packing away all of the equipment and leaving the hall in the what in which it was found. 

Our other volunteers acted as Games Makers outside of the game, promoting TEAMSIXTEEN and getting schools to pass over details for further contact when the initiative goes live.

Whilst at the England game, everyone's involved within the TEAMSIXTEEN launch completed a lap of honour around the pitch at half time. A huge amount of exposure to the new initiative, made even better by the attendance of over 5,300 spectators to the game, alongside those watching online at FATV. Hopefully this is a massive kick start to the programme, with many schools becoming a part of the programme. 

The women's game itself finished 1-1, a very entertaining game with England having a goal disallowed late on. The Lionesses now travel to Sweden for the European championships where we hope they will go one better than the last championships and come out as winners. 

Just to round off this blog post, whilst waiting for the train at Burton-on-Trent station, a gentleman asked myself and Jazz Hervin [Football Futures Young Leader] about TEAMSIXTEEN after hearing about it a the England game. He then went on to tell us about how he was Rachel Yankey's youth team coach and how he got her into playing football for his team at a young age. After being reunited with Rachel after the game, she said, 'thank you, you created me as a footballer.' To the coach's reply of, 'I didn't create you, you created yourself.' 

What an amazing story, but doesn't that just relate to the entire day. Football can be coach led, or run by teachers, but they/we are just the there to help build a foundation. What is done from there is up to the players. Change the rules, format anything and everything.. it is the player's game, however much we want to create great players.. it is down to them to create themselves.

Word can't really explain how much I enjoyed the whole day, arriving to the event and then sticking around with my Football Futures mates afterwards. We as young volunteers were able to shape the day for our young players who will allow the initiative to flourish back at their schools. 

Many thanks to everyone involved within the launch of TEAMSIXTEEN and those who will be a part of it's future. A huge shout out to our Football Futures Family who worked incredibly hard to make the day a success, and enjoyable.

 

To find out more about TEAMSIXTEEN please visit: http://www.thefa.com/News/2013/jun/introducing-team-16.aspx

Good things come to those who work..

'You've got a heart as loud as lions, so why let your voice be tamed?' 

A song lyric which perfectly sums up the person I was 2 years ago. Confident minded on the inside, but following a 'dinosaurs' opinion on the outside. By using 'baits' the lion is starting to come out, camps, events and opportunities; where an opinion is necessary. 

'Now we're finally finding our voices.' 

Through opportunities to strive, improve and a want to develop personally I have been able to progress through this voluntary journey of mine. Understanding what coaching is about and how my actions are making an impact. Coaching isn't just about learning to be comfortable in possession of a football, but being comfortable within ourselves as people. 

Last season I was a grassroots coach of an U11s girls side, which I thoroughly enjoyed and didn't think things could get much better. I couldn't have been more wrong. As previously mentioned, I've worked in a number of coaching environments this season, with so many players. I'd like to think I've had a positive impact on them, no matter how big or small. Whether its putting a smile on someone's face for a minute, teaching a new skill or being a role model. 

Through these opportunities I have been able to have a positive influence on the other staff who I have been working with. My hard work, time and dedication hasn't gone unnoticed. In the past few weeks I've had some phenomenal messages and requests,if you like, which have made everything worth while. 

The offering of opportunities which I never imagined possible. So firstly, one which I have previously written about. If all goes to plan I will be returning to Lancashire FAs Girls Player Development Centre next season, to work with the team in what i hope is a more 'hands on' kind of role. This shows that within the small number of weeks I was with the PDC this year, I made a positive impact and contribution on the players and in the eyes of the other coaches. I loved the evenings I spent there, the environment created to coach and play in was incredible and one which I hope can be created again next season. I'm looking forwards to being there from beginning to end, not jumping on the bandwagon as the programme came to a close. 

Through the FA Coach Scholarship Programme I have worked with my mentor and helped support her on a couple of girls festival events with the FA Tesco Skills Programme. These festivals have been a great success, so much so that a girls only skills programme has been put together to run weekly from this summer. This is a huge stride forwards for the FA and girls football in Lancashire, also providing a feeder system for the PDC and Academies. The best news, I've been asked to support the new sessions which are being set up, along side my mentor (How flipping well exciting?!!). To some people this might be, just another coaching thing. But I see this as a massive stepping stone in my football futures journey, and life journey in general. A mile away from when I got into coaching, not just an observant spectator but actually fully involved in shaping a young person's footballing adventure. 

As all good things come in 3s.. Towards the end of this season I started to become involved with the Lancashire Schools FA u14s girls side. As I became involved, the team were reaching the final stages of a national ESFA tournament. The girls reached the finals, played at Hillsborough, and were crowned National Champions! Another adventure which I was a part of and loved every single minute, even if I nearly threw up during the semi-finals, it was that tense!

Since the win, plans are starting to be put in place for next season. My name has placed as a permanent fixture within the management team for the U14s for next season, meaning I get to do it all over again, but this time from the trials, right the way through.... Hopefully being crowned champions again at the end. 

Next season is going to be unreal, the clubs I've worked with this season have all asked me to return and help out again next season. So my weeks are going to be very busy!! I've got plenty to look forward to over the summer and especially the coming weeks, Scholarship CPD, Team16 and the National Youth Futsal Festival in Birmingham at the end of June! 

I keep sitting and daydreaming about the coming months, wondering if I have made all of this up. 

Good things come to those who wait.. Or is it those who work hard and make them happen? 

 'Put it in all of the papers, i'm not afraid, they can read all about it.'

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eFXRQKYFbXE

Less is More

We're nearing the end of the season, and my first year of university is practically over. I've tried to balance my volunteering with uni work, and for a first attempt I don't think I've done a bad job. A few grades are left to come in, but I'm looking at a first for the year overall.. can't have done too badly!

This season has been different, I've been a part of fewer events in terms of setting them up and then delivering them compared to last season. However, the events I have been a part of have been on a regional and national scale. So I've done less, but in another way it's more.The 'smallest' event I've been a part of this season (so far) has been the Shropshire FA Football Futures County Camp, and I was as an ambassador, leading young leaders. There has also been the Lancashire FA Young Volunteers event, again where I supported the event, I didn't go as a participant. I think that in itself shows how far I have come over the last 3 seasons, genuinely gutted that I couldn't get up to Durham to see their Football Futures Camp.. but there is always next year!!

And then my 2 national events of the season so far, working with ISFA all season, working nationally; travelling around the country to work on a tournament. Not just a one day event, being able to see it through from one region to another and then the finals. Returning to the National Young Coaches Academy as a mentor, unbelievable experience to work with so many young coaches, delivering sessions not just standing around listening. Just seeing how much work goes into events of this size is phenomenal.

So 4 events which have been spread across my season, I guess not being within the sports environment every day makes a difference, I'm not a full part of what is going on locally, but maybe that's my choice. It's your own choice to walk away and not be involved. I hope that this isn't the end of my season, I'm putting off working at home to wait for any opportunities that might come up, last season I missed out on too much through working every weekend. I think that I have gotten the balance right this year, with volunteering and uni work. One which I hope to carry through to next year.

But looking at the coaching side, I've been in 6 different coaching situations, with 3 teams, The FA Tesco Skills Programme, Lancs' Player Development Centre and the Lancashire Schools teams. Each and everyone has/is a different environment, thrown up different challenges, and filled up my week. On a typical week, my only free day has been a Friday, with coaching  every other day. Fitting in events, going home and work around them. I've even had to move my uni timetable around to allow myself time to coach.

Considering I have finished my first year, near enough, I could go home and enjoy a very long summer, but I have decided to stay in Preston for a while longer to continue coaching and making the most of the what is around me. So far I've had another top season on the FA Coach Scholarship Programme, every morning I wake up and read my programme goals and I truly believe I'm getting closer everyday.. I might not be there yet but I'm closer than I was yesterday. I've been able to work with different coaches of different standards, pick up new skills and edit my own coaching style.

On reflection, I've had a very productive season in Preston, sure there have been occasions where things haven't pulled off, but that is just an incentive to work harder and go again for the next chance.

A word of advice to young leaders - opportunities are there to be earned. If you have been unsuccessful in something, ask yourself what you need to do to make sure that you have a better chance next time. Facing rejection is a part of life and whilst it's not a nice feeling it's something you will almost definitely face again.. it's a part of growing up. Instead of sitting there feeling sorry for yourself and thinking you've been hard done by, turn a negative into a positive and work hard at improving your skills and experiences so that when you are successful you can be safe in the knowledge you earned it and really deserve it. The world is a competitive place and everything you are learning now - the good and the bad, is helping you prepare for the future so embrace it, learn from it and make the most of it.
Tina Reed, Durham FA.

I set a goal following my Youth Award, Module 2 - to be more successful as a volunteer than last season. I think I've blown that out of the water. Having a want to do better, work harder and get to where I want to be. I feel like I've worked harder this season, trying to keep my uni work up to the highest level I can, creating time to put my coaching and volunteering in. Things can only get better, sure I can't predict the future and I will need a new goal for next season.. but I will keep plugging away and trying to get the chance at as many opportunities as possible.

And for anyone who doesn't know, the dream: I want to be able to walk up to Wembley stadium everyday and know that I will spend my time working on the Football Futures Programme on a national scale.

I'm very grateful or every opportunity which has been offered out, those which I have prospered from and those which I was not successful. I know that the future will hold success as well as failure, but its not failure unless is choose to give up. My 3 years on the Football Futures Programme (so far) have been something which I couldn't even dream of; sometimes I sit a re-read my blog and wonder if it's really me who has been achieving these things!

One opportunity leads into another, I have the thought of coaching with ISFA, next seasons player development centre and a Lancashire youth management team to mull over and prepare for. At the minute, I have no regrets, and rightly so.. but I haven't found what my legacy is going to be? Or if I have I can't see it.

Football Futures isn't about the awards at the end of the season, but those rewarding moments we get all season long.

Although he won't like it.. Dad, this one is yours - my biggest supporter. The person who stands by my side through every success and failure. Your morals and beliefs have become mine, the ones I lead my life by and try to teach others. The person who I can't wait to tell about the emails I get, the opportunities I hit and miss. Thank you for believing in me, I hope I'm making you proud. Without you, I would have given up at the first hurdle, now look at me, the hurdles get a bit taller so that I can jump a bit higher. I'm shooting for the moon.

I don't want this to end just yet
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qwQ6blG3j4

ISFA U11s, 7-a-side National Tournament

So that's it, the national tournament is over. The finals have been completed, and we had a top day at St. George's Park on Monday 29th April. I've seen 6 or the regional heats and the finals, time has flown, sitting in The Hilton Hotel restaurant was a long away away from the Sainsbury Cafe where I had my initial interview last August.

Arriving at St. George's Park on Sunday 28th April was exciting. Waiting for Sean to arrive, wondering what the finals day would be like. A number of the teams had arrived early to stay over as well, so kids were rushing about the hotel lobby, some wet after leaving the swimming pool other patiently waiting for dinner. After receiving my key I could have a snoop around my room for the night. A room in the Hilton all to myself, Ipod in the docks ready for the night, T.V. for Match of the Day. I was overwhelmed by the place, the functioning of the sink taps threw me off for a first. Knowing this was the beginning got me even more exciting.

Before dinner we went to have a look at the pitches, with bowling greens all around this was the perfect venue for the finals. But then came our first major problem. Only 4 pitches has been set out, we needed and had planned for 6. Huge problem, literally hours before we were due to kick off the finals. An occurrence which we could do nothing about until the morning, but it certainly set the mood for dinner.

Anyway, not a lot could put me off my fish and chips for tea, might sound common to you, but the cube of chips and large battered fish was sublime. The fudge cake for pudding also can't be knocked, I knew that I was going to bed very happy. Unfortunately the pitch problem did take over the talk of the table, a lot of panic which left Mark unable to function a pen to sign for dinner. A show of how he felt over the matter, 2 years of planning and work for an error of this size to arrive.

Back to the rooms we went to prepare for the morning. On went my Ipod and the T.V, even that gave me a shock.. little did I know the bathroom had speakers which were louder that the TV! Alarms set, here was me hoping it would be easy to wake up!

Waking up for breakfast, still nervous to find out if the pitch problem had been solved. The sun was sneaking through the curtains, and I was hungry. Great news as I arrived downstairs, we had 6 pitches for the day! We could breathe easy and enjoy breakfast!

So, 8.45am, we were outside setting up the score centre and putting any last minute cones and signs in place. Teams and supporters soon arrived all excited with the hope of being national champions. Parents were caught taking numerous photos of the facilities, the 150 umbro shirts and their team in front of the famous St. George's Park sign. Referees at the ready, players on the pitch.. time to kick off!

180 players, 18 teams, 7 referees, 4 coordinators, all ready to go! Despite the wind, the tournament ran smoothly, no problems cropped up. Parents were constantly gathering around the score board eagerly waiting to see what the league tables read. It was pleasing to see everything come together, watching kids play with smiles on their faces, and enjoying the competition. My early predictions turned out to be correct with St. Edmund's and RGS The Grange playing out the finals! Both had qualified on penalties in their semi finals, non were needed in the final at RGS The Grange clinched the title with a 1-0 victory.

A thrilling tournament, and a great end with 2 top teams battling hard. I did manage to see the winning goal before walking into a pitch sign. But keeping up with fashion I was busy closing down pitches as the final was being played.

It was a great feeling of pride and fulfilment after talking to parents and spectators, their views were all positive. Knowing that I played a big role within the delivery team which had put on a very successful tournament, not just the finals day but all season.
Hearing the words 'We couldn't have done it without you' is quite special. Remember this is a national tournament, my first experience of working hands on, working to a high standard and wanting to push myself to exceed expectations.

Sure there have been issues and barriers along the way, but to get to where you want to be you have to jump the hurdles. The 5am starts, learning how to use the London tubes, fighting respect barriers, missing trains, missing uni lectures and exams, returning home late it's all been worth the results. It has all led up to St. George's, I've had great fun in everything. Everything which I can do, I've done. I've tried every role there is, ended up wet through, but this side to football has it's benefits. By me getting soaked, referees don't have to trek around giving in score cards.. so the tournaments run smoothly. Working hard to have everything set up so that I can watch some of the games, missing the final stages to close down pitches for the earliest finishes.

I hope to work with ISFA again in the not so distant future. But for now, I've had an amazing season working with Sean and Mark. The decision I made to ask for extended time to apply was a top decision, one that I will never regret.

Thank you to Mark Dickson and Sean Smith for having me on board, I've loved every minute and I hope I have lived up to your expectations. And to the Football Futures Programme, without that programme I wouldn't have been able to apply for the placement and put the skills which I have learnt and developed over the last 2 years to the test.

Roll on the next adventure. ISFA journey = complete!