Star-struck youngsters from a Fife football camp swaggered back to school this week after being asked to train alongside some of the world’s best footballers at the Nou Camp complex in Barcelona.
Most football-mad youngsters spent the holidays dreaming of playing alongside legends such as Lionel Messi. However, for a trio from the Cupar AMsoccer school the dream of strutting their stuff at what is seen by many as a cathedral of football became a reality.
As coach Austin MacPhee revealed, they were put through their paces during a gruelling session at one of the world’s most famous stadiums following a direct invitation from Barcelona bosses. According to club records they were the first Scottish players to train there since Steve Archibald more than two decades ago.
“A total of 106 players, parents and coaches enjoyed a trip of a lifetime to Barcelona,” Austin told The Courier. “The young players took part in a five-day training camp.
“They played a series of friendly games and tournaments in addition to enjoying a day at Port Aventura theme park and watching FC Barcelona win 3-1 live in the Nou Camp.”
The players had been preparing for a couple of months prior to their departure with a series of training camps in St Andrews. They had also taken Spanish lessons to help soak up the atmosphere.
“In addition to the games with Spanish boys’ clubs, an AMsoccer select group played against Spanish professional club Espanyol at their state-of-the-art training complex Sport City,” Austin said. “Remarkably AMsoccer ran out 5-4 winners.”
While none of those involved are likely to forget the occasion, for one trio of youngsters the day went from merely marvellous to truly terrific.
“During the training camp three AMsoccer Club players Archie Meekison, Billy Boyter and James Collins were selected to train with Spanish giants FC Barcelona at their training complex beside the Nou Camp Stadium.
“According to the records at Barcelona, these were the first Scottish players to train at the club since Steve Archibald in 1988.”
Despite the enormity of the occasion all the youngsters performed well and are now patiently waiting for a call from club management! Even David Villa had to start somewhere, and Austin was incredibly proud to see the youngsters mixing it in such lofty company.
“This really was an unbeatable opportunity for the kids… training with FC Barcelona is a remarkable achievement.”