A Parent's View

My son was in the Winter Football Group 2017. He had a fantastic time and has returned far more independent, mature and ready to head off to University. Although at first glance the trip does appear expensive it is invaluable for parents to know that their child has 24/7 support on their trip on the other side of the world. The staff guide them through the things they need to do when they first arrive, make the contacts and arrangements with the sports club, introduce them to their fellow travellers,arrange interesting and varied social events and help them to find work if they want to supplement their spending money. My son also had special needs as he was in rehab following a knee operation and received help and advice on finding a physio and personal trainer (we did pay for these separately) The staff at Sport Lived could not have been more helpful from initial enquiry to end of trip. A couple of negative points to be aware of: the wifi at the Space hostel wasn't great which made skyping a little difficult. There was a bit of an issue over access to a gym at the times my son wanted to go (i.e. he didn't want to go very early in the morning)this was due to the gym be refurbished so should be sorted for future trips. But the real point is that my son has been home for just a week now and can't stop talking about all the things he saw and did. He had two coaching jobs which really opened his eyes to how a coach/teacher feels and the responsibilities they have. He chose to take part in the kids club presentation and made a speech in front of 75 parents and kids - something he wouldn't have dreamed of doing 6 months ago. And when he got home he sorted out and put on his own washing!!!