In early April 2023, a group of enthusiastic teachers embarked on our first-ever WorldStrides Soccer Teacher Training Trip to the United Kingdom. Our group were immersed in the heart of British soccer culture on this 6-day adventure, soaking up knowledge from soccer professionals and coaches, participating in educational activities and learning firsthand what our students experience on a trip with WorldStrides. Read the full day-by-day itinerary here and video to learn about our groups’ adventures across the UK.
George Cotsanis is the man who helped make this program happen! He’s our WorldStrides Soccer Business Development Executive who joined the group on our Training Trip around the UK. He shares his thoughts on the second day of activities in Manchester and Old Trafford.
Day 2 – Manchester and Old Trafford
by George Cotsanis
“After starting the day with a short trip on the tram to Old Trafford, the team spent an hour or so with former Everton Football Club Youth Academy Director, Ray Hall. Our group was privy to Ray’s insight into how clubs at the highest level deal with talent identification, development, technical and physical training, as well as his personal experiences on the job.
The groups’ sights were then set on Old Trafford proper, and Manchester United versus Everton Football Club. It turned out to be an entertaining match albeit one-sided. If not for the heroics of Everton and England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford, United may have racked up a cricket score. Nonetheless, a 2-0 comfortable win was their reward for the day. The hospitality was first class and the banter in amongst the group on the day was at high pitch as Celtic were playing Rangers in the Old Firm Derby in Glasgow and the supporters of these teams were keeping an eye firmly on the score while we were enjoying the match in front of us.
A small contingent then went on to Liverpool and a quick walk around Albert Dock and some shopping which included lots of candy and chocolates for the short journey onto Hotel Anfield which was hosting a sportsman’s night where Neil “Razor” Ruddock, the former Liverpool, Tottenham and England International was the special guest. He provided some humorous insights into his playing career and an entertaining night was had by those that attended.
A little bit of amateur karaoke took place on the coach trip back which was a great laugh before we headed out for a great dinner in Manchester.”
Head this way and learn all about day 3 in Liverpool…
WorldStrides offers FREE Teacher Training Trips when you book your first tour with us. You will have the opportunity to meet other teachers who love to travel, get insider tips from the WorldStrides team and hear from a veteran teacher on leading student tours. From experiencing on-tour logistics first-hand to learning about our robust safety and security measures, you’ll come away with a greater understanding of what to expect on your tour. If you’d like to know more about our free training trips, please complete this form, or call 1800 331 050 or email info@worldstrides.com.au
