Camp 2010 was attended by Norfolk FA’s Darren Moss, in a different role from recent years. Darren had added responsibility on this camp in his role as a Senior Regional Counsellor, helping to oversee and support the Regional FA Staff throughout the week.
Along with Darren were the two Norfolk Young Leaders, Lewis Plowman and Danielle Manthorpe, who were both selected to attend following their recent work within the Norfolk County FA Young Leadership Programme.
The young leaders, who travelled from as far afield as Devon and Northumberland, attended workshops on topics such as psychology, goalkeeping, the media, creating a positive coaching environment and Skills coaching. The young leaders also got the opportunity to deliver, coach and lead on many of the sessions throughout the week observed by the staff.
The Management Team, selected from last year’s young leaders camp, devised the programme which added to the inspiring and emotional nature of this year’s event.
A number of young leaders will be selected to either be part of next year’s Management Team or of being offered an FA Coach Scholarship. Although this will be for a select few only, all the leaders will go back to their counties with the knowledge and experience gained from the amazing and inspirational workshops and sessions.
In recent years a number of the leaders from the camps have visited Africa and helped deliver projects in areas such as Botswana and Malawi, and it is hoped that some of the inspirational young people from this year’s camp will also get that opportunity.
"I have had the honour of attending three camps now" said Darren. "The Camp is truly one of the most inspiring experiences I have had the pleasure of being involved with. These young people are the future coaches, referees and leaders. It is a privilege to have spent time with them.
"Lewis and Danielle both did Norfolk proud and threw themselves into the experience, getting involved in everything possible."
The climax of the week was the appearance of World Cup Final Referee Howard Webb, who’s closing speech was received with a standing ovation.
"It was quite surreal" continued Darren. "We watched Howard and his team, including Norfolk’s Darren Cann, on the Sunday night shortly after arriving at the campus. To then see him stroll in carrying the Jubulani Ball and his solid gold World Cup Medal at the end of the week... the look on the leaders faces said it all!"
To find out more about the Norfolk County FA Young Leadership Programme, contact Darren on 01603 704050 or email Darren.Moss@NorfolkFA.com.