Gary Hodgson (Windscale FC) and Sophie Judge (Harraby Catholic Club FC) were selected from numerous young leaders who had signed up to The FA’s Step into Sport Programme, and became the first nominees from the County to attend the camp.
The 5 day camp covers a wide range of football topics, from coaching and refereeing to football science and child protection, and aims to provide the 100 young leaders with both theoretical and practical experience to take back to their own local Charter Standard Club.
Over the course of the week the participants attended numerous workshops which were delivered by members from The FA’s National and Regional staff. The week culminated with a visit from former England International and current U21 manager Stuart Pearce.
Gary Hodgson, one of the counties representatives, really seemed to gain a lot from the week:
“The FA Young Leadership Camp 2008 was an amazing and unforgettable experience. Prior to the event I would never have imagined the true diversity of roles which run throughout football.
“This eye opening experience allowed all of us young leaders to get a taster in the many activities. A personal revelation for me was being introduced to disability football, as it made me more aware that football is for everyone. I even got a taster as I was blindfolded; stimulating the situation of a blind footballer.
“This was just one of the reasons which illustrate that the camp doesn’t just create coaches or referees; it develops young leaders and their ability to handle real life situations in different ways.
“For me, this is why the experience is priceless.
“Thank you to everyone who helped me achieve and attend the camp.”