During the half-term break, children at West Ham United Foundation’s Holiday Hammers Camps were treated to a surprise visit from two of the Club’s best-loved men’s first-team stars.
Tomáš Souček and Vladimír Coufal joined the Foundation’s coaching team at Bobby Moore Academy Primary School as part of the Club’s Players’ Project.
Greeted with enthusiastic smiles and eager anticipation, the duo quickly immersed themselves in the afternoon's activities.
The pair shared coaching tips and motivational words with enthusiastic young footballers eager to demonstrate their abilities. There were many excitable young faces, with many head to toe in Claret and Blue. One participant from the Czech Republic was particularly thrilled to meet her homeland heroes.
Another participant shared how special it was to meet their favourite player, saying: “I normally play in midfield and Tomáš Souček is my favourite player so I’m really happy I’ve met him.”
Aimed at children aged five to 15, the Holiday Hammers course offers a secure, welcoming and engaging space where young participants can forge friendships and enhance their football techniques during school breaks.
The daily schedule emphasises teamwork, communication and active learning, with each session concentrating on a particular technical element of the sport. Mornings are dedicated to structured drills and skill-building exercises, while the afternoons feature enjoyable games that reinforce learning in a fun setting.
Souček was all smiles as he said: “I loved football when I was a kid and I still love it now, but I think this is one of the most important times to be on the pitch, because kids have a chance to make friendships and improve their skills.”
The Czech mates interacted with more than 50 children throughout the afternoon, offering advice on everything from their career paths growing up, the sacrifices of being a professional footballer and the challenges they faced leaving home at a young age to pursue a career as a professional footballer.
Having prepared questions in advance, the children were thrilled to quiz the duo on topics such as their footballing idols, most difficult opponents and the work rate required to make it to the Premier League.
“Neither me or Tom were the most gifted or talented football players, but we always worked hard,” said Coufal. “I had so many people tell me that I would never even play professional football and that motivates me every day.
“I remember when I was young and all I wanted to do was play football, at school with my friends or outside of school it’s always been my dream, and I feel lucky to play in front of over 60,000 people every week.”
The Players’ Project sees the men’s, women’s and Academy squads support important community initiatives, advocating for meaningful causes and inspiring future generations.
Like many aspiring footballers, both Soucek and Coufal faced challenges on their journey to the top, leaving home as teenagers to pursue their dreams of playing football. But both have remained dedicated to achieving their dreams, going on to make over 400 combined appearances in Claret and Blue.
To find out more about the Holiday Hammers programme and booking details, click HERE.
To find out more about the West Ham United Foundation, click HERE.
