Brightstowe Boys go to Wembley

15 lucky lads, many of whom had never been to Wembley before, were invited to be ball-boys in three matches over the weekend; including the final of the Coca-Cola League 2 Play-Off on 23rd May, the final of the League 1 Play–Off on 24th May and the Championship Final on 25th May.

The Year 8 and 9 students attended an introductory session with Wembley Stadium match officials where they learnt about their ball-boy duties and were kitted out in Wembley tracksuits and caps, ready for the matches.

Stationed around the edges of the pitch, the students then collected and returned any balls that went out of play during the game, as well as having a fantastic view of all the action.

In-between the matches, Academy staff took the students for a game of tenpin bowling, a swim at a local pool and a tour around Arsenal’s Emirates stadium in Holloway, Islington, where they saw the club’s changing rooms, the players warm up zone, the VIP reception area and press conference room.

The boys finished the weekend by working at the Championship Final, which saw Burnley beat Sheffield United 1-0 to secure their return to the Premier League after a 33 year absence.

Year 8 student Shaquille Hunter said: “I had a great time at Wembley. The Championship Final was the best, the atmosphere was incredible. We got to see all the players coming on and off the pitch and holding the cup, and actually being part of the match made us feel brilliant.”

The trip was organised by PE Staff Member, Jon Archer, who has links with the stadium through his work coaching with the England Schools FA Under-18’s squad.

He said: “We organised a similar trip for the Year 10 and 11 students last year and they enjoyed it so much that we wanted to take the Year 8 and 9’s this year.

It is an exciting opportunity for any young person to be involved in football at the legendary stadium and the students did the Academy proud, taking their responsibilities very seriously.”

-ENDS-