It was the third annual Brentford FC Christmas ‘Meet the Players’ day took place on Tuesday and the First Team arrived at GOALS Soccer Centre in Osterley to exchange season’s greetings with 90 of their young fans.
Following a morning football session with Trust coaches, the young footballers got a chance to meet and greet the Brentford team as well as tackle them on the pitch.
Danish striker Lasse Vibe, who was welcomed by a group of fans singing his name, was particularly impressed by the event.
“I am glad we can come here and inspire these children,” said Lasse. “I had some great players on my team and I was really surprised by their skill level. They didn’t just run with the ball but focused on passing and did a nice job. It is great for the kids to meet their favourite players – great for us players as well.”
One thing that was a joy to behold was the Brentford kit on display.
“It is good to see so many Brentford kits out there compared to a few years ago,” said midfielder Sam Saunders, who claimed to have won three out of three matches with his team. “I remember when we first started this event there were lots of Chelsea, Fulham, and Queens Park Rangers kits but the number of Brentford ones shows the club is going forward and the fans are getting on board.”
Eight-year old Eira, who plays for the Trust’s Girls Development Centre, was eager to put some challenging questions to the team. She started by asking Brentford Captain Jake Bidwell how easy it was to get a yellow and red card.
“He said it was easy,” said Eira. “My favourite players are Bidwell, Jota, Alan Judge and Harlee Dean. I came here because I like football and we get to meet the players.”
Six-year old Sasha couldn’t keep the smile off his face, saying: “We got to meet all the players. I didn’t know they would all be here; I thought we were going to see three or four but we got to meet them all, including my favourite Alan Judge. I go to all the Brentford home games and I was even allowed to see the night match against Queens Park Rangers.”
Joining the players was Brentford Assistant Head Coach Richard O’Kelly who jovially started the chain of signatures which the children eagerly lined up for.
“These events are not important, they are vital,” said Richard. “If you do not connect with the community you can lose tomorrow’s fans and possibly players. When I look at the players I don’t just judge them on the pitch but also their behaviour in this sort of environment. We want good people and personalities at the club and these players have ticked a lot of boxes today.”
Brentford defender Jack O’Connell enthusiastically joined in with the mini-matches, “I have gone into schools but I have never done this sort of thing before,” said Jack. “It is great to get involved. We didn’t really have these opportunities when I was growing up, so it’s good for Brentford fans.”