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Fitness student snapped up by Arsenal Soccer Schools

Fitness student Sam Sawyer has been appointed as an Arsenal Soccer Schools lead sports coach, one of only a few in the area.

Petroc was approached by Arsenal Soccer Schools and Sam’s name was put forward as a potential candidate, due to the experience he gained at Exeter’s Centre of Excellence and as a scholar at Plymouth Argyle.

The programme, which Arsenal has been running since 1985, is designed to teach boys and girls to play football ‘the Arsenal way’. According to Head Coach Arsène Wenger this involves playing with “a unique style and flair.” In a statement on the Arsenal website, he goes on to say: “The courses are based on the same principles used at the training ground, developing young players’ technical skills and passion for the game to ensure they become the best players they possibly can.”

Sam, who currently plays for Bideford First Team, always dreamt of becoming a professional footballer. However, he is now focussing his efforts on forging a career as a coach.

As part of the recruitment process, Sam was assessed during a coaching session with young children. Speaking after the session he said: “Seeing the smile on their faces when they did something well was very rewarding.” He went on to say: “All I wanted to do when I was their age was play football, so I could really relate to their enthusiasm.”

Initially Sam has signed up to teach ten after school sessions at Parkham Primary School but, using the Arsenal name, he plans to expand into other schools in North Devon. And in the future, he hopes that the skills he gains will enable him to go to America to teach at a summer camp, specialising in football.

Sam’s tutor, Jane Sharkey, is very proud of his achievement. She said: It’s a great opportunity for Sam to be able to bring his football skills into the local community. His success is well deserved.”