GFA Aztech Academy Players Gain Valuable Experience At AFC Bournemouth

The GFA Aztech Academy Under-10 and Under-11 squads travelled to the UK last week for a memorable and developmental visit to AFC Bournemouth’s Performance Centre.

Football Development Officer Seb Vance and High Performance and Academy Manager Ross Allen accompanied the groups, overseeing a packed schedule of competitive fixtures and development opportunities.

Across the afternoon, both age groups split into two sides to face strong academy opposition. The Under-10s played two 40-minute, six-a-side matches against Bournemouth’s Under-9 side, while the Under-11s took on the club’s Under-10 team in a well-contested encounter. The fixtures proved to be a real test, with both teams delivering strong performances and embracing the opportunity to compete against academy-level players.

Seb Vance highlighted the value of the experience for both players and coaches, describing it as a positive visit filled with important learning points. Ross Allen added that exposure to high-level opposition in different environments is a key part of the Academy’s long-term development pathway.

The visit was made even more special by the presence of Alex Scott, the Bournemouth midfielder and former St Martin’s A.C. and Guernsey F.C. player. The local product spent time with the youngsters at the Performance Centre, watching the matches, signing autographs and posing for photographs, ensuring every player had a memorable moment.

To top it all off, the group visited FTY Lab, ending the day on a high.

With the foundation of Victoria Park now established in Guernsey, trips such as this continue to play an important role in broadening experiences, strengthening links with UK clubs and supporting the ongoing development of the island’s young footballers.