This week, the boys were lucky enough to have an inspirational chat by Rhys Weston (AFC Wimbledon) and Danny Gabbidon (Crystal Palace) about their football experiences.
On Wednesday 20th November, Rhys Weston (AFC Wimbledon) and Danny Gabbidon (Crystal Palace) entertained a crowd of BTEC and GCSE Sport students about their journeys and tales of becoming a professional footballer. Both players represented Wales at an international level and spoke of the quality opposition they have played against, playing in world cup and European qualifiers and of course the colossal talent that is Gareth Bale. Having had different journeys into the game, it was clear that the students could empathise with the battle and hard work Danny had been through to get to the Premier League. Rhys, starting in the youth team at Arsenal, was lucky enough to already be in the academy system and spoke of his Premier League debut marking Alan Shearer. Danny’s rise was far different, having played schoolboy football in Wales until he was 16. He then went on to play against Italy in a 2-1 win in the Millennium Stadium. This was a great experience for the new Kinetic Academy programme at Woodcote High School, having two excellent professionals share their views, experience and advice.