The Mariners’ Under 15’s recently returned from a 2-day visit to Whittington Barracks, near Lichfield in Staffordshire. The trip was led by the YDP Lead Coach, Michal Pujdak, with Head of Recruitment, Dave Collins, and coaches, Daniel Walker and James Coulbeck, also attending the visit. They were aided by Capt. Dale, Capt. Spruce and Sgt. Scarlett from the British Army.

The Academy places a firm focus on the growth of its players both as footballers and as people, adopting the mantra 'Developing Players by Investing in The Individual'. The two days provided an opportunity to develop the players psychologically and socially, with a focus on developing discipline, courage, teamwork, loyalty and respect.

“We hope this shared experience with the Army Staff will have a lasting positive impact on our players. The trip provided an excellent opportunity to take the players outside of the normal football environment, as well as taking them out of their comfort zone, providing an opportunity for them to learn about themselves and each other,” YDP Lead Coach, Michal Pujdak commented.

The players undertook a number of team-building and leadership exercises, along with visits to the National Arboretum, and the Lichfield Military Museum. Before returning home, the team also travelled to Birmingham City and played in a range of small sided games against their academy teams.

The Academy intends to make this type of trip a permanent pre-season feature across various age groups.

Everyone at the Academy would like to thank Capt. Dale, Capt. Spruce, Sgt. Scarlett and the Army Staff for helping organise such an enjoyable and beneficial trip.