As a lifelong Pompey fan, any opportunity for Lucas to pull on his boots, play the game he loves and represent Pompey in the Community is one he loves! 

Having already enjoyed our holiday courses, Lucas was thrilled when he was invited to join the Advanced Training Centre (ATC) at the John Jenkins Stadium. It was a chance to test himself in a new environment, train alongside like-minded players and continue developing his game. 

Although he’d been playing football for around two years, Lucas had only recently started organised grassroots football and was still finding his confidence when it came to the more physical side of the game. His family hoped ATC would provide the challenge he needed. 

Friday evenings at The John Jenkins Stadium have quickly become a highlight of Lucas’ week. While he enjoys the football and the opportunity to compete against other ATCs and attended a one off JPL training session, it’s the people that make the biggest difference. 

“Everyone is so welcoming at PITC,” his family say. “All the coaches, no matter which age group they work with, always say hello and know his name.” 

That sense of belonging has helped Lucas flourish in confidence. 

Since joining the programme, his confidence has grown enormously, not only as a footballer but as a young person. Playing against older and different opponents has challenged him to become more resilient, teaching him to keep going even when things don’t go his way. 

One recent match night summed up just how far Lucas has come. 

After scoring in the opening game, Lucas suffered a nasty cut to his knee after being fouled in the second. A few months earlier, that injury would almost certainly have ended his evening. Instead, after getting patched up, he was eager to get back onto the pitch and finished the night strongly. 

His family joked that Lucas was proudly showing everyone his cut for days afterwards, but it was also a great example of how much he had grown. Instead of letting it stop him, he showed confidence, resilience and the determination to get back on the pitch. 

Those experiences are exactly why Lucas’ family would encourage others to get involved. 

“The ATC offers children a fantastic opportunity to make new friends and challenge themselves against players of similar ability. We’d definitely recommend it to other parents.” 

For Lucas, there has also been one unforgettable moment away from the pitch. Seeing one of his ATC training photos appear on the big screen at Fratton Park was a dream come true for a young Pompey supporter and a memory he’ll treasure for years to come. 

Lucas’ journey at ATC shows the impact football can have beyond the pitch. He has grown in confidence, developed resilience and enjoyed being part of a team where he can learn, have fun and challenge himself.