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.

Northern Futures Football Programme visits Celtic in Scotland