Whitley Bay Madrid, an Under 12s football team, has travelled to Indianapolis to represent the UK in an international tournament. The Habig Classic runs from August 21st to 23rd, marking the tournament's 10th anniversary, with Under 12 teams from across America taking part.
First trip to the US
The team set off on August 9th to meet FC Hoosier, their friends from the US, for the three-day competition. While the squad has travelled across the UK and Europe, this is their first time competing in the US, and for many players it is a once-in-a-lifetime trip.
The idea for the journey came about last year when FC Hoosier visited the team in the North East and had a fantastic time. Upon returning home, FC Hoosier wanted to show the North East lads their own hospitality, and the trip was set.
Fundraising efforts
The trip and new kit have been a fundraising challenge for all involved. On June 13th, the boys completed a rowing challenge, with each team member rowing 3,900 metres to replicate the 3,900 miles between Newcastle and Indianapolis. This helped raise funds for their new training kit and other costs. The team also raised money through raffles, a Go Fund Me page, and bucket collections at supermarkets including Tynemouth's Morrisons.
Some of the team headed out early, spending a week in Orlando before arriving in Indianapolis. Despite the chance to see the home of Disney, the main excitement for the boys was showing their teamwork and skills to their opposing State side teams.
Coach and team spirit
Mark Scott, coach of U12s Whitley Bay Madrid, said: "They're buzzing at the moment. They're mainly looking forward to being together as a group." Scott has coached many of the team from the age of 6 and has watched them grow to this milestone with pride.
The team reunited on Monday 17th August in Indianapolis, with some flying from Newcastle, Orlando and Chicago, all sporting their brand new team polo shirts in club colours. After a short rest, they trained at the home of FC Hoosier the following day, warming up for a friendly match against the home team on Thursday 19th.
The game was long and hard-fought, but the boys battled through and played some great football leading to a win. Despite the loss, both teams enjoyed the friendly competition and shared US hot dogs.
The tournament begins on Saturday 22nd August, where Whitley Bay Madrid U12s will take on FC Hoosiers, Legion FC Chicago and Kokomo Renegades, with the final held on Sunday 23rd.
