Year-6 pupils from Woodley Primary School were given the opportunity to interview County players Carl Baker and Lee Jackson on Wednesday, November 5. The pupils made the Study Centre resemble a pre-match press conference and, with their own ready made press badges and expertly presented questions, they set about finding out more information about the County boys.
Carl set about telling the excited boys and girls all about his adventures at Liverpool FC and playing alongside Stevie Gerrard. Lee explained how he was previously on the books of Manchester United but was now glad to be at such a friendly club Stockport County!
When asked which animal in the world he would most like to be, Carl replied he would rather be an insect, so that he could be a fly on the wall in the Gaffer's office! Lee said he would like to be a giraffe so he could look down at people for once! When asked who his favourite team was, Carl answered Liverpool. His favourite player was Stevie G. The best player he had ever played with was - yes you guessed it Stevie G! Last of all when asked what his favourite colour was he replied Red!! I think Carl is rather fond of Liverpool!
Carl and Lee were also asked some searching questions:
Q) What did it take to become a Professional footballer? A) Commitment and dedication!
Q) What were their most memorable moments in football? A) Carl: Playing for England in Finland. Lee: signing for Stockport County.
Q) If they could give any advice to the children what would it be? A) Carl: always try your best and be prepared to bounce back from any disappointments. Lee: always listen to advice and try to enjoy what you do!
It was a fantastic experience for the youngsters to be able to interview such great role models and it certainly helped them with their confidence and also more importantly their "Speaking and Listening" skills. At the 'post match' debrief the pupils felt very proud of what they had achieved and decided that their very own "press conference" had gone particularly well.
Graeme Brock, Woodley Primary Deputy Head said: "What an experience! Meeting Carl and Lee gave the children the opportunity to learn a lot more about the life of a professional footballer. The interview also gave the children a chance to use questioning and listening skills in a practical and exciting way.
"The children were fascinated by Carl's Liverpool and England Semi-Pro experiences. They were completely transfixed for the entire interview, though, and the quality of answers Carl and Lee gave certainly helped!"
Study Centre Manager, Gary Richards, said: "May I on behalf of all the Study Centre staff and the pupils at Woodley Primary School say a big thank-you to Jacci Cooper (County Community Liaison Officer) and of course Carl and Lee for giving up their time for what was a superb afternoon!"
