By David Rogers. BOONE, N.C. — What better way to learn more about soccer than a trip to the heartland of the game? That is the opportunity coming up for 13 members of the High Country Soccer Association’s 14-and-under Gold travel team.
“Next March, these young men will embark on an incredible soccer adventure,” said Ashley Barton, serving as the team’s communications director. “Most of them started playing soccer as soon as they could run, so you can imagine their excitement about this trip. They are really looking forward to the journey ahead.”
In describing the opportunity, Barton explained that the team will participate in “friendlies” (soccer matches against English youth team), visit and tour and English Premier League stadium, observe a training session, attend a coaching clinic and, as Barton said, “… get to experience the thrill of watching two professional soccer matches!”
In addition, the team will have guided sightseeing excursions led by a London tour director.
“It will be an unforgettable time full of soccer, of course, but to experience the sights and sounds of this historic city and meet some of its people… well, these are sure to produce some amazing memories for these young men,” said Barton.
To raise funds for the trip, the team organized fundraisers selling barbecue, popcorn, and baked goods. They’ve also set up a GoFundMe crowdfunding account: https://gofund.me/3e8e77a0
The U14 Gold team is a multi-county affair, with members from Watauga, Wilkes and Ashe County.
Ashe County players:
- Corbin Miller
- Carson Franca
- Braeden South
Wilkes County players:
- Kellen Barton
- Colton Harris
Watauga County players:
- Eero Ward
- Braxton Raymond
- Gavin Morgan
- Gavin Wright
- Henri van Werkkoven
- Jasper Berry
- Zach Rosen
- Mitchell Moss.
