end of Season Trip to Portugal - Recap

We are excited to share the details of a successful end-of-season trip to Portugal by UDA students from the Chester and Gloucestershire academies. Nineteen students and five staff members traveled to the Beira Mar football club in Aveiro, Portugal. The club's CE, Pedro, and owner, Breno, warmly welcomed the students, who had previously attended the UDA Cup to scout potential players and learn more about the UDA program.

During their visit, the students had the opportunity to play against the club's reserve team. They secured an impressive 4-3 victory, leaving a positive impression on the club's staff. This marks an encouraging first step in developing a relationship for our UDA students.​

Beyond their training and match at the club, the students also enjoyed exploring the local area, often referred to as the "Venice of Portugal," and had some valuable downtime on the beach.

Steve Lilley, Program Director at the University of Gloucestershire, commented, "I’ve been on dozens of tours over the years and this was among the most successful. Our hosts were incredibly welcoming, and the facilities were fantastic. In addition, those players representing UDA conducted themselves brilliantly on and off the pitch. I look forward to our relationship with Beira Mar blossoming over the next few years - they are an extremely forward-thinking club and match our culture and values.”

John Dyke, Program Director at the University of Chester, added,
"Reflecting on our recent trip to Portugal, I'm thrilled to see our UDA students showcase their talent on the field and provide an opportunity for UDA to build meaningful connections with the Beira Mar football club. This relationship marks a significant step in creating pathways for our students, blending football with cultural exploration. It’s moments like these that truly enrich player experiences."

UDA is pleased to announce that next year's program will include an opportunity for UDA women at the Gloucestershire and Chester academies to showcase their talents in Portugal. This initiative underscores UDA's mission to broaden our students' social and cultural experiences while providing valuable field opportunities.