"I first was informed by a friend about the camps and trials that UK Football Trials put on and thought I would take a look online.
UK Football Trials was easy to find and appeared top of the google search, from here, I registered my details and sent an email to them. I was replied to by Harry, who spoke to me about various options I could consider. I have two very talented young footballers as son's who play for the Bahrain national teams and are very passionate about developing. Here in Bahrain, it is difficult for them to be developed any further when compared to Europe and especially in England.
When I explained my situation, Harry introduced me to Chris Woodburn who gave me a call and we discussed what exactly I was looking for. He sent me a couple of options and we talked through them. Since then, he looked after the whole process and my oldest son who is 17, began at a football academy in the UK within a boarding school. He also gave me a good idea of the visa complications, immigration laws and information I needed to make a big decision.
Since then, he has loved it. He has began to do well with his academics as he is motivated by his football and has made friends with very like minded want to be footballers. They work very hard on and off the pitch and he is looking forward to his free trials with UK Football Schools. My 11 year old son is dying to get started as soon as he is 12 years old next year!
I just want to thank Chris and the team at UK Football Schools in helping my family find a welcoming and accommodating football programme, that really offers my son the platform, coaching and experiences he wouldn't find anywhere else in the world."
Mahran (Bahrain)
