Professional footballer and former Preston North End player Scott Laird visited Bridgwater College and spoke with students studying the Level 2 and Level 3 Coaching Football in Community Settings courses.
Scott has had an outstanding football league career, with his highlights including captaining Scotland U16’s – U19’s and making appearances for England C. He also knocked Newcastle Utd out of the FA Cup and has played against Gareth Bale at Tottenham, Cesc Fabregas at Chelsea and Sergio Ramos at Real Madrid to name but a few. Scott’s biggest achievement was probably when he scored against arguably the best GK in the world, David De Gea of Man Utd, when he played against them in the FA Cup last season for Preston North End.
Scott delivered a number of workshops providing information about different coaching techniques and as well as holding a question and answer session, he also played alongside the students in a football match on the College’s grass pitches.
To end his day Scott presented the trophy winner of the VTCT football league to the Level 3A students who have been competing in matches all season.
Gareth Lewis (Level 3 Course Leader) said,
“It was a great day and to have a professional footballer to come in and not only deliver some sessions to our students but to also play with or against him was a great experience for all of us. Scott is a Bridgwater lad and really understands the area and his outgoing personality allowed all students to interact throughout the day with him. You can see how much Scott has worked and sacrificed to get where he is today and that message really came across to our students which will hopefully inspire them to continue to be the best that they can be.”
Scott said,
“It was a pleasure to come and share some of my knowledge and experiences with aspiring football coaches. Being a professional footballer in my opinion is the best job in the world, but for those not lucky enough to make it then the next best thing by far is to coach football. I have seen what this coaching course provides and delivers at Bridgwater College and the students are in the best place to succeed and start their coaching careers.”
Student Kerrie Frounks of Taunton said,
“Today was the best day of college so far, I loved it! To see some of the sessions Scott delivered was brilliant, but then for us to play with him is something that I will never forget. Scott has really inspired me to push myself further as that is what he has done to get to where he is today. He was a lovely guy and hope that he will pop in again to see us all.”
If you would like more information about studying Coaching Football in Community Settings or Sport courses at Bridgwater College please contact our Information and Guidance team on 01278 441234.
