“Development Centre Made Me a Better Footballer” - Youngster Heathcote Joins Academy from Saturday Development Centre

Last week’s March trials may have brought back some sore memories for youngster Leo Heathcote, whose first experience stepping onto the pitch at the Windsor Foodservice Stadium are likely ones he would rather forget. Speaking to Head of Youth Development Simon Bryant, Leo and his dad Ben told the story of his first trial and the steps he took immediately after.

“Leo was extremely nervous,” Ben began, “and needed lots of encouragement to attend the academy trials. He was soon put at ease as the coaches were welcoming and friendly. The trials were professional, but still fun and enjoyable. Leo wasn’t initially successful in joining the Academy team, however he was invited to train with the development team, which we encouraged, and he thoroughly enjoyed.”

After nine weeks of hard work within the Academy’s Saturday Development Centre, there was little doubt that Heathcote, who plays at Under-12 level, had found his feet, becoming more comfortable and catching the eye of Development Centre coach Jack Broadhead. “It has made me a better footballer because of the great training.” Leo said, recounting his time in the Development Centre “It is really good, a better experience than any other I’ve had.” Leo has taken his opportunity head-on, already featuring in the Academy team as part of a Foundation Phase tournament last Saturday (26th March), earning high praise from coaches.

“I feel really happy that I have been given the opportunity to train with the academy.” Leo said, when asked about his official call up, “It was nerve wracking but it all soon went away!” This show of hard work paying off underpins the Academy’s belief in professionalism and reward for determination and effort, and Heathcote has clearly displayed this in his time at the Development Centre, and a sentiment shared by his father. “I’m really proud of Leo, he was so happy.” Ben said, “The 9 weeks training with the development centre was worth it.”

“I would recommend [the Saturday Development Centre] to anyone!” Leo ended with, “it’s really good, everyone is so nice, it makes you feel like you’ve been there forever.” Ben added, “Yes, I would definitely recommend the development centre to other parents.”

A massive congratulations to Leo – with continued hard work and determination, we hope to see you continue your footballing journey in a Tigers’ shirt for a very long time. Well done!

The Saturday Development Centre is open to players of any ability and gender, between the ages of 6 and 14. Click here to see more information about the programme, and to sign up for the next block.