Schools football: Sunderland trip savoured by Forrester

Edinburgh school pupils enjoyed a taste of the English Premier League thanks to an arrangement with Sunderland.

Pupils from Forrester High School played against and trained with the Premier League club’s development squad, before going on a tour of the Stadium of Light and watching a match against Manchester United.

The opportunity, which was organised by Trans-Atlantic Soccer’s Premier League Experiences, is to give school children an insight into life as a professional footballer.

Over 1,250 children across 15 local authorities in Scotland will take part in ‘The Ultimate Premier League Experience’ in 2013.

“The day was such a wonderful experience,” said Anthony Hogg, a 13-year-old who plays for Edinburgh City. “The tournament was good; we won a few games although we didn’t make the knockout stages.”

“My favourite part of the day was visiting the Stadium of Light – it has inspired me to work hard at my football.”

Other Premier League teams involved in the scheme are Manchester United, Manchester City, Stoke City and Newcastle United.