Two gifted young footballers from Lawn Manor Academy have showcased their prowess on international grounds, having recently competed in youth tournaments in Barcelona under the banner of Swindon Town Football Club Community Foundation.
Year 7 pupil Ava participated in the Barcelona Girls Cup, representing the Under 12s team. Despite fierce competition, she and her team secured a commendable third place. Ava, who has been passionate about football since the tender age of three, expressed her excitement: “The tournament was really good and we played other teams from London and from across Spain too. The matches were difficult but I’d definitely like to do it again.”
Year 9 student Dinaank also had the opportunity to demonstrate his skills in the Barcelona Cup with the Under 14s. His team advanced to the group finals, ultimately finishing in second place. Dinaank, who dreams of a professional football career, said: “It was a great experience and it was different playing in Barcelona compared to playing in Swindon as I saw how different teams play internationally and how they’re skilful on the ball. I enjoy playing football and think it will help in later life too to stay fit and healthy.”
Football is a well-loved sport and recreational activity at Lawn Manor Academy, with a large number of pupils playing at break and lunch times.
Assistant Headteacher Marek Koza highlighted the school’s efforts to promote wellbeing through football: “As a school, we’re keen to encourage our pupils to make the most of being outside and keeping active.
“We’ve got so many keen footballers, across all of our year groups, including an encouraging number of girls, so we’ve invested in footballs that pupils can borrow at lunch time to have a kick around the playing field.
“It means that the playing field is often filled with football matches and pupils are able to stay active as well as develop their skills and enjoy playing as part of a team.”
Lawn Manor Academy, part of the Ascend Learning Trust, continues to support and nurture young talent. For more information, visit www.lawnmanor.org.
