In the second week of the Summer holidays, #PangCollYear8 pupil Johnny competed at the Gothia World Youth Cup. Johnny was selected for the Prep Schools’ Lions, U13 Independent Schools regional representative football team.

Players from over 100 schools had attended the trials, so selection in itself was an achievement, with Johnny going one step further in being selected as part of the ‘A’ squad. The 'A' squad was made up of the best 17 players in the region, playing warm up matches before the tournament in the Spring term against county, regional and Academy opposition. 

The Gothia World Youth Cup is the world’s biggest youth event and with 59 countries competing was even larger than the Commonwealth Games this Summer.

Johnny flew with his team mates to Gothenburg, arriving at their camp a few days before the tournament for some intensive training. 

58,000 people, including many parents, family and supporters of the players, were in the famous Ullevi Stadium for the Opening Ceremony. 

The football itself was of a high standard, with Johnny’s U13 team winning all three of their group matches against teams from Sweden, France and USA (6:0, 2:1 and 2:1).

Having progressed into the knock out stages and then winning their next two matches (2:0 and 1:0), unfortunately they came unstuck in a closely fought match against a Mexican team, loosing 2:1.

However, reaching the last 16 and having progressed further than any other British U13 team this year, he and his team mates deservedly held their heads high. 

Some of the teams involved in the tournament were from professional academies and feeders for some of Europe’s top senior sides. The standard was very high, as was the excellent coaching which included experienced Coaches and Sports Therapists. 

Outside of matches, the players attended workshops covering a wide range of topics such as nutrition, hydration and sleep. The trip also provided an opportunity for players to gain independence and develop life skills away from their parents.

For Johnny and those who were lucky enough to be selected, this really was an experience to remember. It’s not often that you have the chance to pit yourself against some of the best young players in the world and they undoubtedly returned to England better for the experience. 

For the parents who went it was equally exciting, with quality football played in the right spirit and a making a thoroughly enjoyable week. 

Johnny has automatically been reselected for next years tournament which is great news. For anyone wanting to trial, it is anticipated that trials are to be held this Autumn, and parents or teachers should contact the event organiser, [email protected] if interested.

Discover more #PangCollSuccess stories here!