Doncaster Rovers Academy enjoyed a successful outing at the Bruges Cup 2023.
Rovers U10s-U14s made the long trip to Belgium over the Easter Weekend where the youngsters faced fellow teams from England as well as Scotland, France, Holland, and Belgium.
The U14s made it to the final of the competition where they narrowly lost 2-1 to Sturminster MFC. While the remaining age groups secured plenty of wins over the weekend but they were unfortunate not to make it to their respective finals.
Not only was the trip successful on the pitch but it provided a beneficial opportunity off the pitch for the players to develop key life skills.
For many, it was the first time they were away from their families for more than one day and it was relentless for them with long days and early mornings.
One U10 player said: “My favourite part of the trip was playing against different players from different countries.
“The weekend also taught me to be independent in learning how to cook, for example.”
A parent whose son was part of the tournament added: “The Belgium Tour has provided my son with an opportunity to not only develop his football but also a host of other life skills that no other 9-year-olds would simply have the opportunity to do.
“It has developed his confidence in a range of situations which I firmly believe will assist in both his social and footballing development.
“The staff supported the boys brilliantly whilst also allowing them the space to develop their independence.”
Doncaster Rovers Academy’s head of coaching Steve Welsh organised the event and lead a group of staff and the players to the tournament.
He said: “The Bruges Cup was a huge success for everyone involved as it allowed us to learn from different Academies in different countries.
“But also for the players to experience tournament football in a different country has taught them many valuable life lessons.
“I would like to thank all of the players who joined us that weekend for representing the badge with great pride and dignity, the parents for their support in the run-up to the tournament, and the staff who worked hard to get us to Bruge and coaching the teams while out there.”