The Buckholme Towers School and Nursery pupils in the under 11s football squad were treated to a state-of-the-art coaching session by Poole Town FC’s Lewis Lindsay, at Elite Skills Arena on Tuesday January 13.
Elite Skills Arena is a 360 degree indoor football training arena, the first of its kind, which sharpens professional footballers’ skills. The circular dome-like structure incorporates competitive training drills and games by using LED reactive lighting acting as targets.
After an expert demonstration by Poole Town FC player Lewis Lindsay, the pupils’ skills were put to the test against the clock. The sessions tested their accuracy, speed, positioning, endurance and awareness.
Mr Graeme Caldwell, sports coordinator and Year 3 teacher at Buckholme Towers School and Nursery, said: “This was a fantastic session, something which the team has never experienced before. It really put their existing skills to the test and it is very addictive as each pupil tried to push themselves to score highly.”
Dean Mitchell, director at Elite Skills Arena, commented: “It was great to see promising young players take to the arena and to witness how a simple idea, with sophisticated technology can really improve a football player’s skill.”
When asked about their views on the Elite Skills Arena, pupils said: “It’s the best thing I’ve ever done,” “futuristic”, “awesome,” and “I want to do it again!”
One pupil scored 28 out of a possible 50. The children took part in a beginner session but the full version includes targets at different heights and speeds and tougher challenges. For more information please visit www.eliteskillsarena.com.
Buckholme Towers School and Nursery on Commercial Road, Lower Parkstone, provides education for children from two years and nine months to 11 years old.