Junior reporter Robert Woolley tells us all about his experience on the AFC Fylde Community Foundation’s ‘Train Like A Pro’ programme… 

My name is Robert Woolley and I’m 10 years old. Over the past few days I’ve been lucky enough to take part in the ‘Train Like A Pro’ programme with AFC Fylde Community Foundation in partnership with Cuadrilla. 

Myself and other school mates from Willows Catholic Primary school got selected to join the programme and enjoy the week at the official training base of AFC Fylde.

When I first got asked to take part I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy it or not because training isn’t normally my favourite thing to do, I just like to play the matches at the weekend but it has been truly amazing.

I’ve actually really surprised myself at how much I’ve enjoyed the past few days. I’ve been able to work on all elements of my game including passing, shooting and my skills. It’s great for me because I’m learning stuff that without this week I might not have been able to learn myself.

Midway through the week we got a huge surprise when Scott Cardle, the professional boxer, came to meet us and speak to us all during training. He told us that you should never give up and always strive for the best you can be and its really inspired me to keep chasing my dream to be a professional footballer even if it’ll be a hard journey for me.

Speaking to Scott really gave me the motivation I need to stay committed to football and in ten years time my goal is to be playing for my favourite team Manchester United alongside some of the all time best like Wayne Rooney and David De Gea. Hopefully if I keep practising I can be at that level myself one day.

Thank you again to the AFC Fylde Community Foundation for this amazing opportunity.