Ex EFL Trust Futsal and Education graduate represents England

Alex Turfrey, a former Leeds United Foundation EFL Trust Futsal scholar, is a prime example of how the programme can open up life changing opportunities and experiences.

Not only did he make his England Futsal debut in December last year, but he also became a national champion as he helped his side win the Four Nations Tournament in Edinburgh.

The 21-year-old joined another student at Leeds United Foundation, Joe Kenny, in representing the national team in futsal.

He said: “It’s an honour to represent my country – I’m so happy to have made my family and friends proud.

“There’s so much I’ve learned already and the experience has been incredible. I feel it’s only going to make me develop even further being in a team full of experienced and talented players.”

Alex, who describes himself as an ‘Andrea Pirlo’ type of futsal player playing in the ‘back man’ role, believes if it wasn’t for the programme at Leeds United Foundation he may have never found out about his underlying talent in the sport.

He continued: “I first found out about the EFL Trust Futsal games programme at Leeds United when a friend I knew was going for a trial and he asked me if I wanted to go.

“I went and as soon as I started playing, that was it, I was hooked.

“If it wasn’t for that decision to give it a go, who knows what I’d be doing now – I certainly wouldn’t be the person and player I am today.’’

Since graduating from the programme in 2015, Alex progressed to study at university level at Loughborough University where he is currently undertaking his third year studying sports coaching.

He now represents Loughborough Futsal Club in the National Super League – the highest level of futsal in England.

He insists his progression in the sport all stems from his time around the coaches at Leeds United.

“My time at Leeds was a massive stepping stone for me. The coaches at Leeds are so knowledgeable and know exactly how to help you develop and reach your potential.

“I’d recommend the BTEC programme to anyone. It really is a fantastic chance to represent your club, wear the badge and not only play futsal but get an education too.’’

Looking to the future, Alex hopes to not only keep his place in the England Futsal side but develop as a coach and inspire others.

He even wishes to help out at a place he feels he owes so much to.

“One day I hope to go back to Leeds United Foundation to help out and coach, I feel I want to give something back to a place that did so much for me.

“It’s a great feeling inspiring others and coaching people of different ages, helping them to improve their sporting life and then maybe even seeing them pass on their knowledge and help someone else.’’

To find out more about the EFL Trust Futsal visit: https://www.efltrust.com/futsal/