Gary is the youngest member of the regular 2008-9 starting eleven at just fifteen years old. He plays at left back, although is equally comfortable further forward and has played in midfield in 7-a-side matches. As well as being part of the City set-up for the last two years, in December 2008 Gary joined the Middlesex County FA Ability Counts Centre of Excellence. Gary is visually impaired and plays in special glasses on the pitch.

 

How were you selected to attend the Middlesex Ability Counts Centre of Excellence?

I was put forward for trials by my club coach, Dan Rogers, as I was the right age and he thought I was good enough. I attended a four week trial at the end of which I was offered a place at the centre of excellence, which is based at Northolt High School. There are two age groups and I am in the under seventeen group.

 

What opportunities has being part of the Centre of Excellence provided?

The training is harder work than at City, especially the physical and mental training. It has improved my confidence and is helping to develop my skills. We have played one match against the London FA Centre of Excellence at Charlton Athletic’s training ground. We are also about to play a 7-a-side tournament against the Surrey, Hampshire and Norwich Centres of Excellence.

 

The Centres of Excellence are part of the pathways towards the National teams, what is the next step?

If I do well with the Centre of Excellence I will join up with the regional development team for the eastern or south-eastern region. After that the next step is the National setup.

 

This season you are playing in special glasses, what difference has that made?

I can now see a lot further than before when I used to play without glasses. This means I can react much quicker to what is happening on the pitch, which makes me a better player.

 

Which other teams have you played for prior to St Albans City Youth Disability?

I did not play for anyone else previously. I went to three training sessions with a mainstream youth football club but they said I was not good enough because of my eyes. I contacted British Blind Sport who put me in contact with St Albans City.

 

What have been the highlights of your time with City?

The highlights have been playing football abroad in the Rotterdam tournament and playing football with people I feel comfortable with.

 

What does St Albans City Youth Disability Section mean to you?

It means a lot. I am able to play with a team which I could not have done before and it has given me the opportunity to go to the Centre of Excellence.