Richard, who landed his full-time role at the Foundation whilst studying on the degree course run in conjunction with the EFL and the University of South Wales, spent a week in Florida delivering sessions on PL Primary Stars to children and teachers which would normally be delivered in and around Wolverhampton.
He linked up with Premier League staff and West Ham United Foundation ambassador Carlton Cole, who had a spell on loan during the promotion-winning 2002/03 season, and also visited the Premier League Fan Fest event including watching Wolves’ game at Manchester City alongside 5,000 American fans.
Rich also received a special limited edition shirt from official Premier League printing partners Avery Dennison, commemorating the trip to Orlando.
“It was an incredible trip and one I feel very grateful for,” says Richard.
“The kids over in America are probably more outgoing than over here and it was good to adapt to see how best to impact them as well as sharing experiences with the teachers of how we both work.
“We established and developed some good working relationships which the Foundation might be able to build on in the future.
“Carlton Cole was great to work with, really down to earth and said he really enjoyed his time at Wolves which was the first loan spell of his career.
“We both delivered at the Roberto Clemente Middle School and supported each other’s session, and also had the chance to go and look around Orlando City’s training ground.
“Then came the Fan Fest, which included leading a coaching session in the Nike Cage by the Universal CityWalk on the Saturday, before watching the Wolves game on the Sunday.
“I had never been to America before - it was a great experience and I enjoyed every minute of it.”
The chance to head out to Orlando was another example of the sort of opportunities which students on the Foundation’s degree programme are able to take advantage of.
Not only that, but many, as in Richard’s case, are able to become full time members of staff if they impress, working alongside continuing their studies.
“The degree works really well because I have been able to use the experiences I have learned from lectures and assignments when I have gone out and delivered sessions,” he adds.
“My initial work placement in the first year which gave me a real enjoyment of PE and sport has led on to the opportunity to become a full-time member of staff, going into schools to deliver PE sessions and help with upskilling teachers.
“And then came the opportunity to go to America, which was fantastic, and one I will always remember.”
Interested in finding out more about the Foundation’s degree course? Click here and complete the declaration of interest form.
