‘Why I Chose Newcastle United Foundation Soccer Schools’

Four years ago Nathaniel was diagnosed with ADHD. Despite his love for sports, and particularly football, a bad experience led to him refusing to go to a football camp ever again.

“By the end of the week at this one particular organisation Nathaniel said he hated camps and was never going to another one again”, said Nicola, Nathaniel’s mum.

“A couple of weeks later he was due to go to a Newcastle United Foundation course but refused to go – he was worried he was going to get shouted at again – even though this previous experience at Foundation courses had been great.”

His parents persisted though and finally persuaded him to come along to Goals Newcastle to start the week. It was there they met his Newcastle United Foundation coach, Peter, who took the time to learn about Nicola’s concerns.

With a promise to phone should he get upset, Nicola left Nathaniel with Peter for what she hoped would be a day of footballing fun.

It was never in doubt.

“The following day Peter made him Assistant Manager and his job was to pick a captain each day.  Every day he came home with a smile on his face saying what a great time he had.  The icing on the cake was him winning the Player of the Week medal!”