Not long now until the schools return after the summer holidays, and so too does Wolves Foundation’s Premier League Primary Stars programme, run thanks to funding from the Premier League Charitable Fund.
Premier League Primary Stars offers a variety of different support to schools using the appeal of Wolves and the Premier League to inspire children to learn, be active and develop important life skills.
There are also many other associated enrichment opportunities, including tournaments, one of which saw Codsall Middle School qualify for the final of a national competition, which was played at Molineux.
One of the team, Erin, kindly wrote a report based around her experiences.
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On a Wednesday earlier this summer, some could have said this was an ordinary day – but not for us.
Codsall Middle School had been given the opportunity to represent Wolverhampton Wanderers. Organised as part of the national schools’ sports Premier League Primary Stars, the tournament brought teams from across England to compete on the same pitch that the professional Wolves players call home.
We were just a group of local schoolchildren, who love to play football but were about to have the chance of a lifetime. For once, we had clean boots and our kits were packed. We set off early in the morning with our parents, buzzing with nerves and excitement for the day’s adventure.
As we were announced to walk through the tunnel, we stepped onto the perfectly cut grass under the shadow of the stadium’s towering stand. It was a dream come true! My family and other parents watched proudly from the stands. Many snapping photos of their child and cheering as if it were the cup final.
After some time, the first whistle sounded, and the fans erupted with hope. The Wolves girls kicked off against Brentford (a strong team). Our first two games were fast paced, full of energy and diligence. We defended our goal well and we were given many opportunities to have a shot. We drew 0-0 in both games.
Between games, to lift our spirits, we were treated to a behind-the-scenes tour of some of the stadium, which included the players’ dressing room, the players’ tunnel and the manager’s bench. Some of us couldn’t resist pretending to be our favourite Wolves stars imagining what it would feel like to play in front of thousands of fans.
By the end of the day, medals were handed out, photos were taken, and memories were firmly made. Though not everybody went home with a trophy, everyone left with a smile spread happily across their face and a story they will tell for years. Everyone played with heart and will forever be able to say…
I played at Molineux!
