The Academy U12s, U13s & the U14s journeyed North this week for a summer tour of Scotland for the first time in eight years, providing them with a fantastic experience and opportunity.
On the pitch, the tour provided several different footballing experiences for the teams, with four games being played in four days as part of the trip. City teams faced academy squads from the likes of Leeds United, Sheffield Wednesday, Hibernian & Motherwell all displaying different challenges, and a variety of football styles for our players to be exposed to and learn from.
Away from the pitch, the tour offered players the chance to stay away from home, travel together as a group, and develop an appreciate for the culture & history of a new environment. The team had an opportunity to explore the historic Edinburgh Castle, walk the Royal Mile and visit Arthurs Seat. The following day saw the players journey to Glasgow to visit the iconic Ibrox Stadium, home of Rangers FC.
While tours such as these undoubtedly revolve around the football, Exeter City firmly believe that experiences such as these support more than football development alone; instilling important behaviours to be well-rounded young men, who are willing to do the hardest thing.
Ben Whatmore, U9-U12 Lead Coach, summarised the trip saying "Staying at Stirling University Campus, the boys had to keep their rooms tidy, their beds made and the tables clean in the canteen. Throughout the trip the players were commended for being a credit to the club, being respectful towards others, and showing excellent Exeter City behaviours & values. It was another top experience for our young players at the club, the future is bright."
United We Conquer.