Indiana Soccer recently sent two of its Boys ODP teams overseas to England for a “Manchester 2024 Tour” that had the two teams play three friendly matches against English club teams; tour Manchester, Liverpool, Conway Castle in Wales, and take in two professional games over eight days. The players ranged from 2008-2010
“Indiana Soccer is purposeful in its selection and inclusion of “value adds” to its Olympic Development Program,” stated Dave Guthrie, Indiana Soccer’s Executive Director. The purpose of these “value adds,” such as the Manchester United experience, is to assist parents in developing their children with whom we have the privilege of serving, to grow and mature into their absolute best selves. By traveling, visiting, and interfacing with other players outside of the U.S. (United States), these player’s perspectives will expand and mature beyond that which they would have if not for these unique experiences.”- Dave Guthrie ISA Executive Director
While in Manchester the boys’ teams played teams from Formby, Frodsham, Cherrybrook and Tranmere Rovers. The 2008-09 teams went 0-1-2, while the younger 2009-10 team finished 1-2-0. In addition to the Doncaster match, the boys got training by Doncaster Staff members.
Above: Team Blue vs. Frodsham Below: Team Yellow vs. Tranmere
Both teams enjoyed the opportunity to attend professional matches: League Two – Doncaster vs. Wrexham and English Premier League – Manchester City vs. Aston Villa. In addition to watching the professional matches, players were invited onto the pitch at Doncaster for a penalty kick shootout.
Above: Players with members of the Doncaster Staff
Below: Etihad Stadium Home to Man City
In addition to soccer, players, coaches, and families could take in some incredible sightseeing. Tours of stadiums at Old Trafford (Manchester United and Anfield (Liverpool), offering an opportunity to move throughout the stadiums; sit in the coaching staff seats; hang out in the dressing rooms and walk out through the tunnel to the pitch. Additional highlights included: The Liverpool excursion allowed the group to visit the Caverns, birthplace of the Beatles; the National Football Museum and a walk-through Conwy Castle in Wales.
Upper Left- Conwy Castle, Upper Right Manchester Cathedral, Lower Left- Anfield, Lower Right- Old Trafford
The group also found the opportunity to enjoy some of the English cuisine in the form of fresh English pastries, fish, and chips along the way.
“Giving players an opportunity to experience the cultures and differences in another country was great for their social development. Any time you can be emersed, even for a brief period, allows you to have a better understanding and respect for others”- Indiana ODP Director Todd Sheely.
Above Left: Pastry with Strawberry compote and custard and Right: Fish and Chips,
“Developing your game and testing your skills out against Indiana clubs or those from neighboring states is the norm for players,” said Indiana Soccer DOC (Director of Coaching) Steve Franklin. “Traveling overseas and playing foreign competition, as well as taking in the culture of England and Wales is a once in a lifetime experience.”
Quotes from Parents and Players:
“Thank you for setting up the Manchester Trip. The trip was amazing. Playing teams from around England, touring so many professional pitches, and getting to tour various parts of the UK are memories that Henry will never forget. Going to professional matches were also bucket list level experiences. The tour was well run and the Indiana ODP staff did an excellent job managing the experience for all the players and families.” – Parent
“Seeing the differences in how the fans and players play during professional matches. I enjoyed meeting so many new people and making friends. I appreciated the new views from coaches and their feedback – has helped me grow. All these new experiences were awesome – the culture, architecture, music, riding on a plane for 8 hours”- Player
“It was such a positive experience. It was nice not having to schedule the excursions, dinners, and getting to and from activities was taken care of from the travel company.” – Parent
“I am thankful for the chance to go on this trip. I made so many memories and friends for life! “- Player.