Schools' Initiative

One of the Trust’s key aims is to strengthen the bonds between Forest Green and the community. We plan to enhance the name of the club and promote the game of football by encouraging players to visit schools in the locality.

In mid October Andy Mangan and Alex Lawless spent time in Hempsted School in Gloucester. They held a question and answer session with 80 children and then took a coaching session with an after school club.

The children had crafted a range of questions about the footballers’ career and lifestyle. Here are some of their answers from their hotseats.

From the very first question the children were riveted……..but divided!

Q Which Premiership club do you support and who is your favourite player?

Alex : Manchester Utd Ronaldo

Andy: Liverpool Gerrard

Q How do you feel when you run out in front of a large crowd?

Alex: I had goose bumps when I played for Torquay at Birmingham. There were over 20,000 in the crowd….it was a great feeling

Andy: I played for Bury at Leeds. There were 29,000 at Elland Road. There were only a few hundred Bury fans but it was good to hear them singing my name

Q When you were a child did you think you would be as good as you are?

Alex: I received lots of praise at school and this encouraged me to work hard. I have always known I have ability but I want to be better and play at a higher level.

Andy: I loved football at school and since the age of 14 I thought I could make it. You need confidence and that gives you an extra edge

Q What are the downsides to being a footballer?

Alex: You have to move away from home and can’t relax at holiday time, especially Christmas

Andy: You have to be self-disciplined and sometimes say ‘No’ to going out.