The Northern Futures Football Programme recently celebrated the highlight of their inaugural season with two unforgettable trips to Scotland. Coaches and players from Darwin experienced an incredible insight into life at the heart of Celtic. In January, four coaches from our partner clubs Darwin Olympic, Casuarina FC, Azzurri United and Palmerston Rovers, travelled to Glasgow for an immersive eight-day learning experience at Celtic FC’s Academy. Then in March, eight young players (four boys and four girls aged 14 and 15) made the same journey to take part in a once-in-a-lifetime player development camp. Coaches Trip – January 2025 The coaches trip offered a unique insight into the workings of an elite football environment. Over the course of eight days, the coaches observed sessions led by staff from Celtic’s B Team, Women’s Team and Academy, gaining a deeper understanding of the Club’s player development pathway and football philosophy. The itinerary included visits to both the Barrowfield and Lennoxtown training facilities, match analysis sessions, and the chance to watch both the B Team and Women’s Team in action. Coaches also had the opportunity to tour Celtic Park and take in some of the cultural highlights of Glasgow and Edinburgh. It was a trip full of inspiration as the coaches headed back to their own clubs with new ideas and learnings. “The Celtic coaches were incredibly knowledgeable and approachable, sharing practical techniques and philosophies rooted in their rich football heritage. Jose and team made us all feel part of the Celtic family, the access we had to staff and coaches was second to none. Celtic FC were amazing hosts, and I truly rate this as a once in a lifetime experience, if you have the opportunity to attend, you must do it!” – Darwin Olympic Coach Players Trip – March 2025 A few months later, the programme took eight young footballers to Glasgow, representing the same four clubs. The group, made up of 14 and 15-year-olds who had never travelled that far before, took part in a packed football and cultural programme designed to challenge them both on and off the pitch. During the eight days, the players took part in seven training sessions across both Barrowfield and Lennoxtown, trained with local teams, and played in a friendly match against visiting opposition from Ireland. Off the pitch, the group visited Edinburgh Castle, explored the city of Glasgow, and enjoyed a matchday experience as the Bhoys defeated Hearts 3-0 at Paradise.Celtic’s Academy staff were on hand to present to the group, outlining what it takes to become a professional footballer and what being a Performance School pupil at St Ninians means. The players quickly bonded on the visit, showing great character throughout the week and forming lasting friendships, which will stand them in good stead as they progress through life and football. “Overall, if I had to rate this trip out of 10, I’d rate the experience a 11/10. I definitely would recommend it and wish I could go again. I’m forever grateful to Celtic Football Club and Casuarina Football Club for giving me this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” – Michelle Chen, Casuarina FC A Huge Success and a Bright Future Both trips were made possible thanks to the continued support of our programme sponsor, Santos. Their backing has allowed the Northern Futures Football Programme to deliver once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for young players and coaches from Darwin, and we are incredibly grateful for their support. This year’s trips to Scotland have been the pinnacle of the first year of the programme—creating fantastic memories, developing skills and confidence, and strengthening the partnership between Celtic and our Northern Futures clubs. Planning is already underway for next season’s trips, and we look forward to building on this year’s success as we continue to grow the game in Darwin.
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