Learner tackles coaching scheme in USA

A learner at Coleg y Cymoedd has the opportunity to develop their budding soccer coaching skills across the pond in the USA.

The coaching scheme – called Challenger Sports – allows learner to travel to different areas of America to build on their coaching skills in a variety of soccer camps.

19 year old Connor Prankerd from Caerphilly, who studies level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport, will spend eleven weeks in Baltimore from mid-June.

To be chosen for the scheme Connor had to undergo a practical assessment and interview. On being successful the budding coaches had to attend a training weekend in April at Warwick University before flying out to America.

The scheme was introduced to the college by Head of Sport, Neil Smothers, who coached soccer in the States himself, as a learner at Cardiff Metropolitan University.

Neil Smothers said: “The scheme gives the students an opportunity to boost their coaching skills in a different soccer environment whilst living in and experiencing real USA culture. It also helps them to build their independence and confidence skills whilst having a truly fantastic life experience.

Furthermore, they will meet new people (other UK coaches and USA families and friends) and develop their portfolio of contacts that can provide further opportunities for them in the future.”

Connor Prankerd, said: “I’ve been playing soccer since I can remember and I find coaching youngsters so rewarding. It’s so exciting when you see young people working hard and improving, as I know how important sport is to young people, and I love putting the work in to help them get better.”

“I didn’t know coaching in the USA was even an option until college had someone come in from Challenger Sport to discuss the prospect with us. I took the opportunity straight away as I want to build a career in sport coaching, so this is ideal. I am so pleased to have been accepted and am very excited to go, I’m sure it will be a fantastic experience.”

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