Waking up to our first English breakfast, the team prepared for our 2-hour journey to play our first match of the week against Doncaster Rovers Academy. A full spread of eggs, sausage, fruit and, of course, Coach Dale's "proper bacon" was available to begin fueling for the match.
At 9:30am was our first pregame meeting of the week as we revisited our objectives for the match and discussed our team shape, starting lineup and set pieces. There was an obvious excitement in the room as the boys began to realize the opportunity that they've been given.
At 10:00am, we boarded the coach and drove the scenic route through the hills of England. After a 2-hour trek, we arrived at Doncaster Rovers Keepmoat Stadium. Walking through the halls, we quickly recognized the culture that's been built at Doncaster Rovers Academy. Walking through the first hallway, the Academy's Football Philosophy was pasted on the wall next to its mission statement, "Creating Players of Value." Broken into the 4 moments of the game (Attacking, Defending, Transition to Attack, Transition to Defend), the Club's style of play was clearly defined. As we rounded the corner to enter the dressing room, the acronym "C-H-A-R-A-C-T-E-R" was evident above the dressing room entrance.
Creative
Honest
Adaptable
Resilient
Attentive
Confident
Take risks
Enthusiastic
Respectful
Down 1-0 early in the match, our boys quickly learned the desire and passion instilled in young English players. Coach Matt and Coach Dale's experiences in England proved to be extremely valuable in this situation. After a short team talk, the boys regrouped and saw consistent success going forward, creating several chances to get back in the game. After a hard fought match, ending 2-1 to Doncaster, the boys walked away with some valuable lessons learned after Match Day 1.
The hospitality of the Doncaster Rovers Coaching Staff was tremendous as the boys, coaches and parents went on for a tour of the First Team's dressing room and the stadium pitch. After some group pictures and a walk through the stands, the team boarded the coach again for our trip back to Manchester.
Time for some rest and relaxation to prepare for Middlesbrough tomorrow!
VDA Staff
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