One local football coach turned the tables on training, when preparing for the TriYas last weekend. It was coach Kevin Hodgson’s turn to be put through his paces, as he prepped for the triathlon in order to raise funds for UAE-based charity Choice 2 Change.
With an aim of raising AED 5,000 to help give children living in slums in Bangladesh access to schooling, the Royal European Football Academy Abu Dhabi (REFA AD) coach volunteered himself for the triathlon.
Inviting parents, players and family members along to a special presentation about the not-for-profit charity, REFA AD management were surprised by the support they received from the community.
“The photos of children in the slums really hit home, to see just how much they needed the money. Even in my lowest point in training, that got me through it,” said Hodgson.
The first-time triathlon participant had a mere five weeks for training and had to hire a bike and was given a wetsuit to compete. With a gruelling training schedule to keep him busy, Hodgson admits he was nervous for the 750 metre swim, 20k bike ride and 5k run.
“I was very anxious, I didn’t know what to expect,” said Hodgson. “Two minutes before the finish line, I was never doing another one. One minute after the finish line, I said I could do another.”
Hoping to finish in less than two hours, Hodgson managed to finish the race in 1 hour 30 minutes.
The club hopes to get more involved in giving back with further charity initiatives planned for the future. “We take things for granted here. Our players have the best equipment, the best coaches, the best facilities and the best environment. Everything is there for them to become professional players but kids in Bangladesh have to struggle for everything. That was really difficult to realise but very motivating as well,” said Kirsty Darlington, operations manager and ladies coach for REFA AD.
The football academy, which is associated with REFA Spain, was rebranded in September of last year. Previously called Rawdhat FC, the newly expanded club has 160 players, eight teams and UEFA qualified coaches.
REFA AD is hosting open trials throughout the season and is currently based at Al Yasmina School in Khalifa City A. To find out more about the academy email: [email protected]
