Wirral Met College has partnered with The Football Academy Dubai through the Turing Scheme offering a unique trip to Dubai for our sports students.
The program was designed to provide a comprehensive football coaching and training experience alongside developing a rich cultural knowledge of Dubai's most famous landmarks and attractions.
The two-week experience blended both practical and theoretical elements covering topics such as coaching the under 12s teams, peer on peer coaching and sessions such as Sports psychology and Session planning. The students received world-class coaching advice from the experienced coaches at The Football Academy Dubai, who provided a range of drills and exercises to help students develop their coaching skills.
Students ran coaching sessions covering a range of topics, from basic skills such as passing, dribbling and shooting to more advanced techniques such as set-pieces and defensive strategies.
Jake, coach from TFA Dubai, originally from the UK said,
“It was such an amazing opportunity to teach and be a part of the journey with them. To have an impact on their lives made me look at myself and realise what an amazing experience I’ve got to be out in this country doing what I love and that the students can do the same because it is possible.
What stood out to me was the students’ attitude on wanting to learn and gain valuable experience and knowledge in the field of sport. As I’ve told them before never be afraid to break that ice and take on every opportunity!”
Mihail Marinov, studying the NCFE in sport coaching extended diploma, year 2 said, “This work experience has allowed me to start thinking out of the box and actually experience what is out there. This trip has allowed me to reflect on my skills and knowledge in the sport coaching area and valuate how I can develop my career internationally”
Jodie Davies, studying Level 3 Sports Coaching said, “I have enjoyed the trip to Dubai as it has given me experience coaching in a different environment. It's made me step out of my comfort zone and helped my confidence grow as I have received praise and feedback from course tutors, friends and TFA coaches.
My favourite part of the trip has been making new connections with people I didn't know before coming here.
I am looking forward to taking what I have learnt back to the UK to help young players improve.”
Aside from the football coaching aspect of the program, the students also had the opportunity to experience Dubai's rich cultural offerings. The students visited a number of iconic landmarks and attractions such as Al Seef, The Burj Khalifa, La Mer, The Palm, Dubai mall and Emirates mall. Which provided students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a new culture and explore all that Dubai has to offer.
Highlights of the cultural program was a visit to Al Seef, a traditional Arabian market which offers a glimpse into Dubai's rich history and culture. The students had the opportunity to shop for traditional souvenirs and experience the sights, sounds and smells of the bustling market. Another highlight was a visit to The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Diving into the blue waters of La Mer students also got the opportunity to relax at one of Dubai’s beautiful beaches.
Overall, the partnership between Wirral Met College and The Football Academy Dubai, supported through the Turing scheme offered our sports students a unique opportunity to develop their football skills while experiencing the rich culture and history of Dubai. The program provided a comprehensive and immersive experience that will stay with the students for a lifetime.
