Children from two grassroots football teams had their dreams realised as they stepped into the boots of Hull City players, thanks to the club’s partnership with rural broadband provider Quickline.
Quickline teamed up with the Tigers to run a “Day in the Life” competition open to under-9s, 10s and 11s teams across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, where it delivers its broadband services. The winners received an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience at Hull City’s training ground in Cottingham, East Yorkshire.
From more than 650 entries, two teams were selected at random – Gilberdyke Phoenix FC, based near Howden, and Filey Holt FC Under 9s, based near Scarborough, in North Yorkshire. Around 15 players from both teams, along with their coaches and parents, were taken to the training ground from the MKM Stadium by bus.
After being welcomed by club mascot Roary the Tiger, they undertook a coaching session with Hull City Academy coaches, before playing a game against each other. They also had lunch in the players’ canteen, served as it would be to the first team, and had a tour of the facilities, including the changing rooms, gym and media room.
The two teams ended the day watching Hull City retain their Championship status in the last game of the season on a big screen, before departing with a Quickline boot bag and water bottle. Sarah Lilleyman-Hall, Quickline’s social values and events manager, said: “We worked really closely with Hull City to make sure the winning teams experienced what life is really like as a professional player.
“The children were all so excited, and it was lovely to see. This is why we do what we do – to give opportunities like this to the rural communities we serve. It helps boost the children’s confidence, and also their aspirations for the future.”
Justine Robert, head coach of Gilberdyke Phoenix, said: “From the moment it was announced we’d won, everyone was really, really excited. This will invigorate the children and, for those who do want to make it in the game, it will inspire them and make them believe it can happen.
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“It’s not just a dream – it can be a reality for them. As such a small community, we’re eternally thankful for this opportunity. I’d like to say a huge experience to Quickline for the experience of a lifetime.”
Paul Allick, Filey Holt head coach, is a Hull City season ticket holder, along with his son Parker. Filey used to play in green but switched to black and amber to replicate the Tigers.
Paul said: “This has been the talk of the town since we were told about it. The children were all so excited. It’s an amazing experience for them, to be taught by professional coaches.
“The children were able to follow the routine of a professional player, literally step by step. They all have aspirations to play professionally, and this shows them that it’s possible.
“I hope Quickline understand what this has done for a small community like Filey – it’s absolutely massive.”
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Hull City Academy coach Angus Robinson was one of those who put the young footballers through their paces. He said: “It’s a once-in-a lifetime opportunity for them to come into a professional club and receive coaching with these facilities. It’s something they’ll remember for the rest of their lives.”
Other activities delivered under Quickline’s partnership with Hull City have included first team players Matty Jacob and Liam Millar holding a training session for pupils at Eastrington Primary School, near Goole. Fans also got the chance to quiz club captain Lewie Coyle and midfielder Matt Crooks at an exclusive Meet the Players event hosted by Quickline in South Cave.
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