Young, aspiring soccer players recently had the chance to attend training in Turin, home of Juventus Football Club.

From 3-8 April students registered at Juventus Academy had the chance to participate in the Juventus Training Experience in Cantalupa, a small village near Turin, Italy. This is the third year that the trip has been organised, and it offers football players between the ages of five and 17 the chance to immerse themselves in the Juventus coaching methods.

This year the trip involved more than 30 kids and 20 families. Among these players, five came from the Juventus Academy locations: GEMS Wellington Primary School — Dubai (WPS) and GEMS Westminster School — Ras Al Khaimah (WSR).

WPS student Afonso Bandeira said: “I’m glad to be here because it’s a great experience that I will remember for a long time.” Alfonso’s schoolmate, Adam Aldali, added: “It’s very interesting and different from Dubai. The coaches are teaching us a lot of new things.” This trip offers students the chance to train with Juventus Coaches, tour in the city of Turin, and to watch the Juventus — AC Milan match in the Juventus Stadium.

“I am so happy to be here with other kids from the Academy because I’m having a lot of fun,” said WPS student, Daniel Norkamaruzaman. Last October Juventus Academy opened in Ras Al Khaimah, at WSR. For WSR student Walid Abburadi, the training experience was a very special occasion because it marked his first time travelling to Italy. “I’m happy because here in Italy I can train like a real football player, I can stay with my friends, and I can do everything.”

Another WSR player who travelled to Italy for the Juventus Training Experience is Mohammed Al Jarwan, who decided to travel with his uncle and aunt. “It’s a great opportunity for us to be here in Italy with Juventus. The Academy is showing us a great time,” he said.