It was 23rd of July.
Isaac was leaving his grandmother, his country and his continent. He was chasing his dreams.
That's why, even though he felt butterflies deep within him as he went through all of the airport formalities, he didn't worry. He knew what he was chasing, and he knew what he had to do to chase it.
Isaac admired the giant plane before him. He was taking it all the way to England. The most popular route was from O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to London Heathrow Airport in London. On average this flight took 15 hours and 41 minutes.
"Are you nervous?" Patrick Woods voice broke him out of his reverie.
"A little bit... I've never been on a plane before." Isaac let out a nervous chuckle.
"Oh, really? What about you guys?" The man turned to Sfiso and Theo. Sfiso simply nodded, clearly not wanting to admit it. Theo however, shook his head.
"I've been to Capetown a few times, we went by plane."
The scout nodded, a smile on his face.
"I see, well don't worry too much about it. We won't be taking any stops along the way."
"Is that a good, or a bad thing?" Isaac asked.
The scout chuckled. "It depends how you look at it."
Very soon, the 3 children along with the 2 scouts had boarded the plane. Isaac found himself strapped to his seat, and rather than making him feel safe, he felt trapped within his seat.
Soon, the plane had begun to move. Isaac felt his stomach twist and turn as as he felt the vibrations of the plane moving. Than it lifted off the ground.
His hands clasped together tightly, and he swallowed saliva, in attempt to get rid of the lump in his dry throat but, his mouth was dry. A light feeling emerged within his tummy as the plane lifted, and soon they were in the air. Being next to the windows, one glance showed him the landscapes and buildings that just got smaller, and smaller until soon, they were in the air.
°~°~°
In half a day, Isaac's shaky legs stepped unto the london ground. He felt relief that he had finally escaped the plane, and nervousness now that he was in a whole other continent. Theo voiced his thoughts.
"Bro! Can you believe it? We're in a whole other continent. I'm literally standing in Europe, it feels strange."
"It does." Isaac muttered. Sfiso stayed silent but Isaac knew he felt the same way.
Now that flying no longer distracted him, he realized what he had been told by Patrick Woods. He would train with the first team.
However, he wouldn't play for the first team. He'd be loaned to a smaller team for experience, but he would be allowed to take part in the preseason friendlies with Brighton.
However, he'd have to do well in training in order to get himself a first team contract. Otherwise he'd join Sfiso and Theo in the U19s.
Patrick Woods spoke
"you're probably worried housing. Well , Brighton youth players who are far from home typically live in various housing arrangements provided by the club. These arrangements are typically designed to accommodate the specific needs and requirements of the players. Some common options for youth players include Academy Residences,Homestays and private rentals. In academy residences, Brighton & Hove Albion have their own academy residences, providing accommodation for young players. These residences are usually equipped with dormitory-style rooms or shared apartments, training facilities, study areas, and common spaces for recreation and socialization.
As for the 2nd option, it is Homestays. In some cases, the club may arrange for youth players to live with local host families. This allows the players to experience a more family-oriented environment while being away from home. Host families provide support and create a nurturing atmosphere for the players.
For private rentals, In certain instances, older or more established youth players may choose to live in private rentals nearby. These rental accommodations could include apartments or houses. The club would likely assist in finding suitable rental options and making the necessary arrangements.
Regardless of the specific arrangement, the club typically takes measures to ensure the well-being, safety, and development of their young players while they are away from home. This includes providing support, supervision, and guidance throughout their stay.
You boys will be staying in the academy residences and should you get loaned, Isaac, it will probably be within this region. In that case, plans will be made for your accommodation. "
Isaac nodded, overwhelmed by all of the information. Well, all he needed to do for the day was rest, than he'd go join the team. Apparently, after his medicals, he'd join them on the 24th, and join the team training the next day.
Isaac couldn't wait.