Soccer pupil wins dream trip to Dubai

Arsenal Soccer Schools Dubai pupil David Gowans enjoyed the experience of a lifetime at Emirates Stadium as the Gunners took on West Ham last week.

The sixteen-year-old was the lucky winner of a competition run by team sponsor Emirates airline, who flew David and his father, also David, to London from their home in Dubai.

After a day of taking in London sights and shopping on Oxford Street, the duo from Aberdeen were transported to Emirates Stadium for a host of pre-match activities, including an exclusive guided tour of the stadium and museum, as well as the chance to watch the players as they arrived on team coaches ahead of kick-off.

An Arsenal photographer snapped photos of David in the Arsenal home dressing room, as well as in the tunnel and on the side of the pitch. The tour was followed by a three-course lunch in one of the exclusive Club Level restaurants before the match kicked off.

On the pitch, Arsenal made a fantastic showing throughout, beating West Ham 2-0, with Denilson scoring an early first goal and Cesc Fabregas picking up the second from the penalty spot.

After the game the Gowans were even invited to Arsène Wenger’s post-match press conference, which was a highlight of the day.

David’s father said: “We’ve had a really fabulous time on our trip to London and we’ve been very well looked after. It’s been great to have a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium and to attend the press conference after the match.

“It’s fantastic that Emirates and the Arsenal Soccer School even arranged for Arsenal to go to the top of the league, which is above and beyond the call of duty!

“David’s been to a lot of soccer schools, but Arsenal Soccer Schools Dubai is certainly the best we’ve experienced.”

In addition to the flights and match-day experience, the prize included complimentary accommodation at a five-star hotel in Central London so the pair were able to relax after a weekend of sightseeing, shopping and football.

Registration is under way for courses at Arsenal Soccer Schools Dubai at 7he Sevens, Emirates’ dedicated sporting facility in Dubai. For more information, visit: arsenalsoccerschooldubai.com