Students Enjoy Memorable Football Tour to Cologne

Students from Oxclose Community Academy recently returned from an exciting football tour to Cologne, combining elite coaching, competitive fixtures, cultural experiences, and unforgettable memories.

The journey began on Thursday afternoon as the group departed Oxclose Community Academy with bags packed and excitement building. Students travelled to Hull to board the overnight ferry to Rotterdam. Once on board, they settled into their cabins, explored the ship, and enjoyed time together as the adventure officially began.

After arriving in Rotterdam the following morning, the group travelled across the border into Cologne, Germany, where the football activities got underway. Students took part in an impressive opening training session delivered by professional FC Köln coaches beside the RheinEnergie Stadion. The group trained with great enthusiasm, focus, and energy, proudly representing the academy.

The first competitive matches soon followed at FC Stammheim.
The U14 Girls faced a strong and well-organised opposition. Despite a determined and hardworking performance, they narrowly fell to defeat after competing brilliantly throughout the game.

The U13 Boys started their match in explosive fashion, scoring three early goals and going on to secure a dominant victory. The team produced an excellent all-round performance, playing some superb football with intelligent passing and movement that consistently opened up the opposition. Clinical finishing in the final third ensured a comfortable and well-deserved win.

Day three began with another high-quality training session led by FC Köln coaches before students enjoyed a behind-the-scenes tour of the RheinEnergie Stadion. The tour allowed them to experience areas normally reserved for players and staff, while building excitement ahead of the Bundesliga fixture between FC Köln and Borussia Dortmund.

The group later explored Cologne city centre, visiting the famous Lindt Chocolate Factory and the iconic Cologne Cathedral. Students also had the opportunity to sample traditional German favourites such as Bratwurst and Currywurst as they prepared for the evening’s football action.

Later that evening, the U14 Boys faced FC Stammheim and delivered another outstanding team performance, securing a convincing victory. The day ended with students relaxing together at the hotel while watching Newcastle United take on Manchester City before heading to bed.

On the final day, the group said farewell to the beautiful city of Cologne and travelled to Efteling Theme Park in the Netherlands for a thrilling end to the tour. Students enjoyed the rides, attractions, and magical atmosphere before travelling back to Rotterdam to board the overnight ferry to Hull.

To round off the trip, a special awards ceremony was held on board the ferry to celebrate the achievements of the players and reflect on a fantastic few days. The tour provided students with valuable football experiences, opportunities to explore a new culture, and memories that will last for many years.

Oxclose Community Academy would like to congratulate all students involved for representing the school with such pride, teamwork, and enthusiasm throughout the trip.