A group of 40 young football fanatics used their half-term to improve their game play at Ipswich Town player Tommy Smith’s Soccer School last week.
The three-day course, at Ipswich Academy, focused on skills such as passing and receiving, shooting and dribbling, with each day ending with a football tournament during which the children are encouraged to implement their new techniques into a game situation.
The group also got to meet with follow town player Luke Hyam.
“The soccer school went really well this week despite the cold weather,” said Smith. “I run soccer schools to give back to the community that has given me so much over the last nine years. If I can pass on some of the knowledge and experience that I have acquired and help young players to improve, then that will provide great satisfaction.
“A special mention should go to the coaches as well. D’arcy De’Ath and Curtis Stammers have been with me from the start and I couldn’t do it without them. They provide an excellent environment in which the kids can flourish.
“The kids love playing matches and we want them to enjoy themselves as well as learning something new along the way. I know they also enjoy meeting other professional footballers who are an inspiration to them.”
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