It's Academic

Earlier on this evening the Green Machine took on Everton's under 8s academy boys at their Finch Farm complex. Played indoors on a thick carpet of astroturf, it gave the boys the opportunity to pit their footballing wits against younger, but ultimately more talented players. The age difference was a great leveller, and the teams were evenly matched up to a point. But the extra sharpness of the Everton fledglings shone through as they triumphed 6-3, displaying power and strength that was admirable. It was a good test, and a steep learning curve on how the really talented play the game. I couldn't help feel a few pangs of jealousy.

Academy standard players are a breed apart. Hungry to learn, able to absorb instructions and new skills, they are a joy to watch. They are also unlike their contemporaries in that they will pass the ball at will, foregoing the usual selfish streak seen in boys of this age. They may at times pass the ball too much, and their long-term development as skillful footballers could be compromise as a result. It is so good to watch though, especially as they were no older than 8 years of age. It was also useful in that it showed where my own players stand in terms of ability. Some struggled whilst others flourished. Philip did okay although he wasn't nearly as effective as normal due to the constant presence of tenacious players snapping around his ankles. Like me, he isn't particularly competitive but he does try. One or two of the Everton boys were so strong it made you shudder, and one midfield collision in particular made me gasp. There were a few bumps and scrapes to show off after the game but nothing too serious. The boys departed just after 8pm, exhausted and a little demoralised after the defeat. But they could all hold their heads up high after performing well.

I couldn't help feeling a little disappointed after the match, even allowing for the fact that the team had played well. As a coach it is often difficult to conduct a meaningful session, given that many of the boys prefer acting up to listening in. I yearn to achieve the levels of concentration and attentiveness that the Everton coaches' enjoy. My one hour per week contact time, (excluding matches) is dwarfed by the three hours these boys enjoy. Factor in higher concentration levels, remove the disruption, and add in wonderful surroundings, and you have plenty of time to learn. I must always try to get it right in my 60 minutes, or I run the risk of having to wait another week to amends. It is tough, but that is reality for the junior football team coach. Satisfaction and frustration are inextricably linked, and are experienced in equal measures. But I couldn't give it up, not for a minute. I will continue, waiting and striving to achieve footballing nirvana. It may be a long time coming, but it will be well worth the wait.

Kicking back

Following a most splendid weekend spent camping in Shropshire, the inevitable "down" has well and truly arrived, and all of us find ourselves slightly under the weather. One other member of our party, (a 15 year old) was sent home from school early as his teacher thought he looked exhausted. I've battled on today, and only succumbed to the inevitable about four pm when I nodded on the sofa. I may be tired however but I feel great, the legacy of time well spent. Put simply, it was the best short break I have ever been on, a wonderful three days that will live long in the memory. It was such a pity when Monday arrived and the adventure came to an end.

The campsite was basic with just a communal toilet and shower block to use. Other than that it was wide open fields, woods to explore, and nature to enjoy. Philip and Ellie had the time of their lives, playing happily with the other children in our group, and reveling in the freedom that camping brings. Ellie in particular forged a particularly strong bond with two other girls, and the tears that flowed when we were about to leave were expected. During the four days and three nights that we spent there we made many memories. The highlights include a parents versus children rugby match which was keenly contested, a talent show by the campfire which was very entertaining, and a mass football match to end festivities in which I notched the winner. It was easy on the wallet, (£34) good for the soul, (the laughter was incessant) and a roaring success. If only life was always like this.

Saying goodbye

The big match

2nd day

Camping

Camp as a row of tents

Our home for the next three nights, (excluding Daryl who has too much sense) will be our 8-berth tent, pitched in a site in Shropshire. My love of camping, and the outdoor life in general, will be fully put to the test by the early May weather, the forecast of which isn't exactly promising. It makes me think of our last camping expedition last summer....

A 5 day trip to South Wales turned sour within 90 minutes of arrival at our campsite as the weather turned extremely nasty. The sunshine which greeted our arrival was quickly replaced by heavy rain, and it literally never stopped for the remainder of our stay. At one point, Ellie and myself were huddled together in one bedroom, clinging on to the inside of the tent with dear life. Philip and Jane were doing exactly the same in the bedroom opposite, the fear of being blown away now very real. Thankfully it never happened, but it was probably the most frightening night of my life. We were all feeling dreadful the following day, the lack of sleep now taking it's toll. When our car broke down and left us spending the day waiting for the RAC, it confirmed our suspicion that the trip was cursed. For the first time ever, we couldn't wait to go home, and we left early on the final day. Typically our departure was greeted by the arrival of a mini heatwave, with glorious sunshine sweeping across much of Britain. It summed up a difficult few days, and we were glad to get home.

Despite this experience it hasn't changed our views on camping one iota. It remains the perfect way to spend a family holiday, and just watching the children enjoy themselves is reward in itself. The moment the tent is unzipped in the morning for the first time, until it is drawn closed at night, Philip and Ellie will throw themselves into the most important part of campsite life; having fun. They are very excited at the prospect, and we can just hope that the weather is kind to us. Fingers crossed.