Pro For A Day Tournament

Fox Soccer Academy had the privilege to host the inaugural ‘Pro For a Day’ event at the King Power Stadium, home of Leicester City FC. Over 600 players signed up from all over the world with 50 teams competing in a highly entertaining tournament.

The two-day tournament opened up the opportunity for many young aspiring footballers to experience the luxuries of playing on a Premier League pitch, in a professional stadium and making the nerve-wracking walk down the player's tunnel. The emphasis was on the opportunity and showcasing their talent in front of parents, families, friends, and scouts. Clipboards were out and squad lists displayed as many scouts from professional football clubs such as Leicester City, Coventry City & Peterborough United were in attendance to look for the next big talent. The day commenced with all teams being applauded onto the pitch as the Foxes' horn filled the stadium. Each team received its fixtures, managers were briefed and the tournament commenced. Over the 2 days, teams competed in 6 games to try and lift the trophy for their respective age group.

The Premier League pitch was split into four 7 aside pitches which meant there was plenty of football action all around the stadium and it didn’t take long for the first goal and the supporters to jump off their seats. All players embraced the opportunity to create memories of a lifetime with their teammates. Some cheeky celebrations and trademark knee slides were on show as they soaked up every moment! Why not?!

The morning consisted of the age groups U8-U11s, and the afternoon continued with four fresh age groups U12-U15s ready to take on the challenge and opportunity to experience what the current Premier League players go through week in and week out. Not only were there plenty of opportunities for the players to have fun but spectators were treated to the chance to win prizes including signed shirts from former Leicester City Premier League champion and FSA owner ‘Christian Fuchs’.

Goals were flying in on every pitch as spectators took in the warm weather and enjoyed beverages and food. In-between fixtures, teams were scheduled to take part in a Leicester City stadium tour where they got to visit the backstage areas in and around the stadium such as the media conference room, changing rooms, where the players relax after games & the small details you don’t normally get to observe at such fantastic venues. The day came to an end with both the morning and afternoon sessions leaving it all to play for on day two. Teams were left looking forward to qualifying and dreaming of competing in finals.

Day two of the tournament started very similar to day one, with teams walking out the tunnel and those scheduled to play given time to have a light warm-up as action resumed. All teams across every age group had one final group game left to play before they were given their final placement position. The top two teams in each age group rightfully deserved the chance to compete for the “Pro For A Day” trophy. The final game of the tournament for multiple age groups led to penalty shootouts where the real pressure was on display. Some outstanding penalties were converted in this process alongside a vast amount of keepers being the heroes. Something to truly remember for everyone.

As the tournament came to an end with all games being played and final placements confirmed, the award ceremony was being prepared and raffle winners were drawn in a live draw. A couple of happy spectators screamed from the crowd when finding out they were the lucky winners of signed Leicester City and Charlotte FC jerseys. One by one teams that participated in the tournament were called onto the stage to receive their medals and have a team photo. The winners of each age group were cheered to lift their winner’s trophy and celebrate on the podium in front of friends and family. Every player involved in the tournament was given a souvenir to take away and remember the tournament and a two-day event filled with football and memories that will stay with them for a lifetime was drawn to a close.

Everyone at Fox Soccer Academy would like to thank all those who joined us for the event at the King Power Stadium. We are truly grateful for all the support from those who helped behind the scenes and to all supporters who gave their kids the opportunity to dream.

Pro For A Day will be back bigger and better in 2023 including a new girls-only tournament.