Rainford High students score big on Valencia football tour

Students from Rainford High recently returned from an unforgettable four-day football tour to Valencia, Spain, organised by the school’s PE department.

The experience brought together two Year 9 boys’ football teams and a Year 10 team for a packed itinerary of sporting fixtures, professional coaching, cultural excursions and team-building activities.

The tour kicked off with a visit to the iconic Mestalla Stadium to watch La Liga giants Valencia CF take on Espanyol. The students joined thousands of fans in cheering on the home side as they secured a dramatic 1-1 draw, which was an exciting start to the trip and a moment to remember for the young footballers.

On the second day, students trained at Valencia CF’s professional training facility under the guidance of club coaches before heading into their first competitive fixtures. Rainford High’s Year 9 B team recorded a 3-0 victory over Ribarroja CF, while the Year 10 team impressed with an 11-4 win in a thrilling encounter. Players Sam Thomas and Michael Williams-Chesworth were named players of the match for their performances.

Day three saw a final training session at Valencia CF followed by a trip to PortAventura World, one of Europe’s top theme parks, where students and staff enjoyed a well-earned break and braved rides such as Dragon Khan and Shambhala.

The final day included a behind-the-scenes stadium tour at the Mestalla, offering students a closer look at one of Spain’s most historic football venues. The tour concluded with the Year 9 A team taking to the pitch against Ribarroja CF in a closely contested match, which ended 3-0 to the hosts. Lucas Murray was awarded player of the match for his resilience and skill throughout the game.

The trip concluded with a celebratory evening meal at a traditional Spanish restaurant, where staff and students enjoyed the local cuisine and reflected on the unforgettable memories made both on and off the pitch.

Mr Ian Young, headteacher of Rainford High, said: “This tour was a fantastic opportunity for our students to not only enhance their football skills, but also to broaden their horizons and immerse themselves in a new culture.

“We are incredibly proud of how they represented themselves and the school throughout the trip. Opportunities like this help build character, deepen friendships, and create memories that will stay with them for years to come.”