Story added: 12th November 2025

Foundation’s Football Pathway enjoy France development tour

During the October half term, 70 players from Norwich City Community Sports Foundation’s girls and boys football pathway travelled to Lille, France for a four-day development tour. 

The group, made up of players aged 12 to 16, took part in competitive fixtures against French sides US Tourcoing and SC Douai, offering a chance to test themselves against international opposition. The players also trained at CREPS Hauts-de-France, where they were provided with warm hospitality and use of their fantastic facilities. 

The trip also included a visit to RC Lens, who are currently challenging for the Ligue 1 title in the French top tier. The young Canaries had a guided tour of Stade Bollaert-Delelis – their stadium which has previously hosted fixtures in the World Cup and European Championship. 

There was also a visit to Prison Island, where players took part in team-based challenges to round off a busy week in northern France. 

“It was a fantastic week for all of our players,” said Chris Ninham, Football Operations Manager. 

“Having the chance to take them away and experience a different culture presented them with a great learning and development opportunity. The players were a real credit to the Foundation in the way they conducted themselves, both on and off the pitch.  

“This trip is one of many fantastic opportunities that we’ve been able to provide our football participants. We place real emphasis on growing our players in all areas of their personal development, and we’re delighted to offer these types of experiences.” 

Find out more about our girls football pathway or boys football pathway.