The penultimate day of our trip was predictably memorable. The group started by having a guided tour of Old Trafford and Man United football club. As expected, many of the boys mouths were watering at the mere prospect of this opportunity and they certainly were not disappointed. This was followed by a little more shopping in Manchester city centre and finally a chance to visit United's cross town rivals, Manchester City and their Etihad Stadium.
The city of Manchester is also home to the National Museum of Football. It was an extremely unique experience. For those who used to watch the cult classic puppet show 'Special 1 TV', the iconic José Mourinho puppet could be found there amongst other intriguing things. As England is also the birthplace of football, there was a fascinating timeline detailing the origins of the sport 150 years ago to its modern day.
This concluded our northern venture and it was time once again to head south. Instead of going straight back to London it was instead finally the chance to visit St George's Park, home of the Football Association and the English national team's training facility.
You could watch a thousand videos on this complex and still not fail to be blown away by the impressive nature of it. It is truly football heaven. The main centre is linked with the Hilton Hotel where we were staying. Recent visitors to the complex for training include FC Barçelona and Porto.
We were given a brilliant tour of the facility in which we were shown every nook and cranny in the place. The highlights include the England training pitch which is an identical replica of the Wembley pitch in every facet. It's dimensions are the game, it's grass is the same length, and if it rains in London they water the park here. Just mind blowing. And if that wasn't enough they have yet another 3G turf replica next to it indoors which is where we were able to practice following the tour.
What a practice it was. At night under the lights, the intensity was amplified even further by the occasion. 11 v 11, 6 v 6.... You name it. We played where England play. Once in a lifetime experience.
The night ended with a truly world class dinner at the hotel restaurant. Our equally world class tour guides Andrew and Will finished proceedings by handing some very well thought out awards to the team both good and bad! The hosts had a surprise themselves from us as we invited them to be permanent members of the Springfield College family.
Unfortunately tomorrow is time to go home. All this will not be forgotten in a hurry! As Coach Siebert will say to everyone he meets now.... "Cheers mate!"
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