England Recap 2026

What an incredible experience with our 2011/12 Academy squad in the UK.

Trips like this are about so much more than soccer. They’re about growth. Perspective. Understanding the game on a deeper level—while also experiencing a different culture that lives and breathes football. Every time we step into a new country, it’s a reminder that this game connects people in ways that go far beyond the pitch.

And for this group… it was special.

We kicked things off exploring Shakespeare’s hometown before heading to Liverpool FC’s Anfield. One of the most iconic stadiums in the world. From there, the players experienced the energy of the city before traveling to Wrexham, where they watched the women’s team lift a league trophy. Seeing players they’ve followed for years finally achieve that moment hit differently. It showed them what the journey really looks like. Years of work, sacrifice, and belief.

The next day, the standard was set early.

A session with Tosh Farrell brought unmatched energy. His presence, his detail, his passion. It challenged the players right away. That session set the tone for what was to come. Later that night, we took in a Championship match between Preston North End and Queens Park Rangers, giving the players another level of inspiration before stepping onto the field themselves.

Match day arrived.

Our first game, played in a 15,000 seat stadium at Bury, was against FC Fylde Academy. It was physical. It was intense. It was real. With England internationals on the field, our players got a firsthand look at what that level demands. The match ended 2–2, but the result wasn’t the story. Competing, adapting, and then connecting with the opposition after the game, That’s what mattered.

Then came one of the highlights of the trip: St George's Park.

Being in that environment, where England’s national teams prepare, was powerful. Our players shared the space with U16 through senior national team players, even meeting some along the way. It’s one thing to talk about elite environments. It’s another to step into one.

That same day brought another challenge against Luton Town Women. A completely different style more direct, more physical. And once again, the players adapted. A 1–1 result, but more importantly, a response to adversity. After the match, both teams came together over food, conversation, and connection. It was tough to separate them by the end of the night, which tells you everything about what this game can do.

Then it was time for London.

Working with an academy coach from Arsenal FC at The Hub brought out another level of competitiveness in the group. The session demanded focus, detail, and intent—everything we speak about within our own environment. That same day, the players toured the Emirates Stadium before heading into their final match.

And what a test it was.

Facing Watford Women Academy showed us a different level. Their cohesion, technical quality, and understanding of the game were top class. The result (7–3) didn’t define the experience, the exposure did. Seeing that level up close gives players clarity on what it truly takes.

From there, the trip opened up.

London sightseeing. Landmarks. Culture. Moments with family. And then a Premier League experience watching West Ham United. The following day brought even more. Visits to Arsenal FC’s Hale End Academy, Chelsea FC’s Stamford Bridge, and a match between Brentford FC and Everton FC.

The game was everywhere. And the players felt it.

Final Thoughts

Putting together a group like this is never easy. It’s not just about selecting talented players. It’s about finding the right people. The right families. The right mix to create an environment where everyone can grow. And this group got it.

They competed. They adapted. They connected. But more importantly, they experienced.

Because at the end of the day, this isn’t just about playing games. It’s about opening eyes. It’s about understanding where you are in your journey and where the game can take you.

The reality is, the women’s game overseas has grown at an incredible rate. Every time we go back, the level has jumped again. And while that gap still exists, experiences like this are how we close it.

We don’t shy away from that. We lean into it. And that’s why we go.

I’m already looking forward to the next opportunity to give players this kind of experience, because these moments don’t just shape them as players…

They shape them as people.