Born (to coach) in the USA Posted 04 March 2010 Four Chesterfield College students are set for the experience of a lifetime when they jet off to the United States of America to coach youngsters in the art of football, or should that be soccer?
 
The College has teamed up with various organisations, including ‘Challenger’ British Soccer Camps, to forge links that give coaching students the opportunity to find employment. Last year, Ashley Rhodes became the first Chesterfield College student to go to the USA on a coaching scheme and whilst he is returning this year, three others will also take part in the life-changing experience. Along with Ashley, Jake Ball, Oliver Ridgway and Mark Shepherd will all be venturing to various states to coach for a minimum of six weeks.
 
Jake Ball, 18, from Kirkby-in-Ashfield and currently in his second year of a Sports Coaching National Diploma, explains, “The College made me aware of the coaching opportunity after inviting various soccer camps in to speak with us. Following this initial trip to America I would ideally like to gain a scholarship out there, something that all of my tutors have been working really hard to make a possibility. The experience should be fantastic and will give us a great sense of independence as we’re all going to different parts of the country; I’ve been allocated a camp at Rhode Island.”
 
Oliver Ridgway, 20, from Renishaw, a first year National Diploma in Sport student, remarks, “I knew someone who had taken part in something similar and decided to investigate it further via the soccer camp’s website. Things went from there really and the fact that College staff were heavily involved really helped me in terms of organising what the trip required. The programme is great, whilst we’re out there we earn a weekly wage, are supplied with food, accommodation and travel. I’ve been allocated a space in Seattle and I can’t wait to go!”
 
Neil Cluxton, Sports Lecturer at Chesterfield College, explains, “Fellow Lecturer, Ryan Bullock and I have been working closely with a number of coaching organisations both in this country and abroad to create a passage of progression for our NVQ level 2&3 coaching students to gain employment into the coaching industry.
 
These students are the second wave to go to the USA after Ashley set the ball rolling last summer completing a successful 10 week contract. The fact he had the character to take this opportunity last summer and work with Challenger Sports in the USA has encouraged further students to grasp this life changing experience.”
 

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