Last week, The Nest and the Community Sports Foundation were delighted to welcome youngsters from Finnish side, FC Haka, for a five-day visit.
Arriving in the afternoon of Sunday, 16th of October, the side had little time for respite before taking on local sides, Sprowston and Costessey in two pre-arranged 9 v 9 fixtures.
Their opening day wrapped up with dinner in the Clubhouse, followed by an array of evening activities such as table football, a pool tournament and use of our Challenge Woods!
Day two and three presented the residential an opportunity to see some of the city, and more importantly, receive a tour of Carrow Road and the Lotus Training Centre in Colney.
Upon returning to The Nest after their day out in the city, the team readied themselves for a training session on the 3G pitch – but not before a little surprise courtesy of Norwich City FC.
As the group sat pitch-side, circled around their coaches, a familiar face emerged from inside The Nest in the form of Teemu Pukki, sparking elated cheers and gasps amongst the youngsters.
The striker spoke with them for some time, answering all of their questions in their native tongue, before hosting a signing session and photo opportunity for each of the children.
Pukki surprises FC Haka
The FC Haka players and coaches were then presented with tickets to Norwich City’s home fixture against Luton Town, which despite the result, was relished by our Finnish guests.
The conclusion to their stay saw training sessions with Women’s Team Head Coach, Shaun Howes, as well as some sessions of their own in preparation for a mini football festival vs. the Foundation’s U12 advanced squad.
The side returned home to Finland on Thursday, with bags full of Norwich City attire, signed Avant merchandise and memories of a lifetime from their East Anglian adventure.
Thank you to Raimo and Avant for coming along to meet the FC Haka team, bridge the language barrier, and distribute merchandise for Pukki to sign for the youngsters.
