FC UNITED POWERED BY IDA
ROYAL PRE SEASON CUP
Boys & Girls 2012/2013
Arrive Tuesday 12th and depart Monday 18th, August 2025
WHAT IS FC UNITED?
Global Sports Experiences presents FC United, an All-Star Program meticulously crafted to bring together individual players from across North America. Our program is tailored for elite players aiming to compete internationally, offering them a chance to join all-star teams and participate in prestigious global events. Addressing a market need, we provide these talented individuals an exclusive platform for global soccer exposure, far beyond domestic play or teams with limited international reach.
We provide a full developmental pathway to support your individual goals. Your journey does not end on the last day of the tournament but is rather the starting point on your journey, whether that is to play on the international stage at a top professional club or compete at college our staff are there to assist.
We work with the best people to ensure the best preparation that delivers the best performances both on and off the field of play.
THE FC UNITED DIFFERENCE
- Managed registration program by expert GSE Staff including all operations and logistics.
- GSE managed flight program, fundraising opportunities, insurance, accommodations, transportations, dietary and medical needs.
- Options to add parents and supports to join the event with discounts for family members.
- Communications with your FC United Team and Coach before departure to prepare for the event.
- Preparation matches and training before the start of the tournament with your team and FC United Coach.
- Participation in Elite International Tournaments and Academy Tours.
- Full time FC United coaching staff travel with the group for the entire experience.
- GSE Expert support after the event to manage further player pathways and development.
- Supervision by local bilingual expert staff on the ground 24/7
FC UNITED POWERED BY IDA
Our FC United program is 'powered by IDA' . The International Development Academy provides once-in-a-lifetime experiences for aspiring youth soccer players. The IDA offers elite training and competition, exposure and access to the best recruitment for your soccer journey with off the field education and support.
IDA currently has academies in England, Rome, Spain and the USA with notable alumni like Jeremy DeLeon who is currently starring for Real Madrid in La Liga. For more information about the IDA program or to set up a meeting with a member of the team please visit the website at the following link
WHY GLOBAL SPORTS EXPERIENCES
WHY ROYAL PRE SEASON CUP?
- All-in-One Location: At Bradfield College, the heart of the action beats with unity and convenience as the fields and player accommodations coalesce into a seamless experience. This centralized hub fosters unparalleled team bonding and enhances the overall playing experience, ensuring that every moment spent at Bradfield is optimized for camaraderie and competition.
- Proper "Football" Experience: Step onto the pitch and immerse yourself in the essence of football at its finest. Here, amidst the picturesque setting, players have the unique opportunity to showcase their skills and talents in an environment teeming with competitiveness and camaraderie. Engage in spirited matches against EPL Clubs and top English Academies, where each game serves as a testament to the dedication and passion that define the beautiful game.
- Accommodations, Harry Potter Style: Embark on a journey of soccer enchantment at Bradfield College, where player accommodations are steeped in the whimsical charm reminiscent of Harry Potter's magical world. From cozy common rooms to quaint dormitories, immerse yourself in the spellbinding ambiance that sets the stage for an unforgettable soccer experience.
- Proximity to London: Just a stone's throw away lies the bustling metropolis of London, beckoning players and guests to explore its timeless wonders. From iconic landmarks to captivating tours, London offers a plethora of attractions to delight every visitor. Don't miss the chance to witness the excitement of an English Premier League game, adding an extra layer of thrill to your soccer adventure. Whether strolling along the Thames or cheering at the stadium, London promises an unforgettable experience for players and guests alike.
PROSPECTIVE SCHEDULE
Day 1 - Monday August 11th
Departure from your international airport and fly overnight to London.
Day 2 - Tuesday August 12th
Arrival at Heathrow and meet the FC United Coaching staff then take our bus to hotel accommodations for parent check in. Players will travel to Bradfield College for check in and training session with coaching staff followed by dinner and team meeting. Note that hotel check in will be from 3.00pm, parents and supporters can drop bags at the hotel then travel into town or Windsor.
Day 3 - Wednesday August 13th
After breakfast bus will pick up players then travel to parent and supporter hotel. Group will then travel into London city center for a tour of all the famous sights. Start at Buckingham Palace then through St. James Park, past Piccadilly and Trafalgar Square before heading past Horse Guards parade and end at Westminster and Big Ben. Free time for lunch by the London Eye before heading back for a training session with your coaching staff.
Day 4 - Thursday August 14th
After breakfast the players and supporters will head to Stamford Bridge the home of Chelsea Football Club for a behind the scenes tour which includes the press room, changing rooms, go pitch side and even sit in the dug out. Then stop by the Chelsea museum and finish in the club shop for all your souvenirs. Other stadium options include Wembley the home of England's national teams. Travel back to the college and play a pre tournament showcase game as preparation.
Day 5 - Friday August 15th
Light training session for the players with their coaching staff then we have a free afternoon in Windsor with its famous castle and country retreat of the Royal Family. Option to add a tour of the castle or just take in the surroundings and sit by the Thames or even visit the famous Eton school. After free time back to the college for the opening ceremony with all the other teams.
Day 6 - Saturday August 16th
Opening day of the tournament with group games against local teams, academies and other international clubs. Most teams will play at least 2 games with final schedule to be announced. There may also be the chance to watch a live professional game based on the published fixture list for an additional fee.
Day 7 - Sunday August 17th
Final group games to determine if you will play for a trophy. After the tournament ends the closing ceremony will take place for parents, supporters and their respective teams. players have the option to leave with their supporters or stay the final night at the college.
Day 8 - Monday August 18th
Time to return back to the USA with memories to last a lifetime!
Please note schedule is subject to change based on final fixtures and events.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM GSE
INCLUSIONS & PACKAGES
- Players and team coaches will stay at Bradfield College with all other teams at the tournament. The school is set in the Berkshire countryside, and is one of the country’s leading co-educational, independent schools through its provision of an outstanding education.
- Players will receive full board of 3 meals daily.
- Parents and Supporters will stay at the VOCO hotel attached to the Reading FC stadium approximately 15 minutes from the college.
- Parents and Supporters will receive breakfast plus a Welcome Dinner.
- Players will practice with their FC United coaches and have a pre tournament game and guaranteed 3 games during the event.
- Transportation for all internal travel including scheduled pick up and drop off at the airport.
- Behind the scenes stadium tour of Stamford Bridge the home of Chelsea Football Club or Wembley Stadium the home of England's national teams.
- Sightseeing tour and free time in London to take in some of the top sights such as Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, Piccadilly Circus, Westminster and Big Ben.
- Your own international GSE Director and Staff travel with your group and are available 24/7.
- Payment schedule to help spread cost and family discounts.
- Fundraising opportunities and financial assistance. We want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to travel.
- All travel coordinated by your personal GSE travel specialist.
- GSE has full liability insurance and we also provide access to individual travel insurance plans including cancel for any reason options.
NOT INCLUDED
- FC United playing uniform which needs to be ordered through our supplier Wegotsoccer at an approximate cost of $250 and includes home and away uniform, full tracksuit and training jersey.
- Additional activities and events not listed in the schedule. This may include tickets to travel on the London Eye, entrance fee to Windsor Castle or even tickets to live professional games.
- International Flight, approximate cost of $900.00 based on recent fares.
- Travel Insurance. GSE works with Trip Mate travel insurance to provide options including Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) policies. You can find more information on the registration page.
- Tips and gratuities for your driver and tour staff.
Cost per participant: $2,000 for players and $1,850 for parents and supporters.
** Please note that a third family member will receive a $100 USD discount with the fourth or any additional receiving a $200 USD discount. This will be applied at registration.
APPLICATION: Once you submit your application to a representative from Global Sports Experiences will reach out to discuss the program in more detail. We will also speak with your coach and check out any video links you send. We select players based on their on field and off field abilities and want to ensure this is the right fit for you and your development as much as what you can offer the team.
REGISTRATION: If successful you will be invited to register follow the step by step guide to register and secure your place. We have limited spaces for players and their supporters and once rosters are complete we close registration. You will be required to make a deposit payment per person you expect to attend to hold your place. GSE will continue to send out communications and information via the registration page.
COMMUNICATION: Unfortunately, because the players are being selected from different states and even countries it is not possible to have a training session or face to face meeting before departure. However, as we get closer to your departure date we will set up a ZOOM meeting with the group to go over final preparations and to meet the coach. This last meeting will include details on what to pack, hotel confirmations, confirmed games, sightseeing events and much more. We will also provide details about the GSE staff who will be managing the day to day events and will meet you on your arrival.
Once you have registered for the event we will provide you with a roster number. You will then need to purchase your FC United player's uniform package from our apparel provider.
Players will require the following FC United items which need to be purchased at an additional cost:
- Home Jersey.
- Away Jersey.
- Training Jersey.
- Socks x2.
- Shorts x2.
- Full Tracksuit.
Our apparel provider may recommend other items such as bags, rain jackets and coats but these are not compulsory to purchase.
HOTELS AND TRANSPORTATION
- Accommodation: FC United programs will have various accommodation options based on your respective tournament or event. We may stay in colleges or 4 star hotels and players might have single rooms, double occupancy or even triples. Parents and Supporters will be provided accommodation based on double occupancy but single rooms might be available for a supplemental fee. For some events players and their parents may be able to room together. During the registration process we may collect preferences for room mates amongst the players. You can find specific details regarding your accommodation on the registration page.
- Transportation: We will provide transportation for all activities listed in the schedule. For airport arrivals and departures we will provide transportation based on the group flight times or the most convenient time for the majority of the group.
- Food: Full details about the meals provided as part of your event can be found on the respective registration page. For many of our events we will have full board but some will have a breakfast and then one other meal to allow for free time during the day for sightseeing or cultural events.
- Dietary Accommodations: Participants with dietary restrictions will find meals tailored to their needs available during the trip. Closer to the departure date, we will collect information regarding any allergies or dietary preferences to ensure everyone's needs are met.
HOW FLEXIBLE IS THE SCHEDULE?
- Please note that the schedule can and probably will change based on schedule for our games, weather and other unforeseen circumstances. However, everything we state will happen in your schedule will take place but the order may change.
- As we get closer to our departure we may provide additional programming such as live professional games, sightseeing or other cultural events. As these are confirmed we will add them to the registration page. Some may require an additional fee which will be detailed on the registration page.
TRAVEL QUESTIONS
- Flight Options: GSE will detail on the registration page the time you are expected to arrive at your incoming international airport. You will be responsible for coordinating your meet up with the group based on the times provided to then start the itinerary. If we have enough players and their supporters traveling from one location we may arrange a group flight.
- Solo Travel: For any players traveling alone they may need a completed 'permission to travel form' or arrange to travel with a member of GSE Staff. Once at the event unaccompanied players will be under the guidance and supervision of our experienced staff, ensuring their safety and comfort throughout the journey.
- Passport Requirements: A valid passport is essential for travel. Please ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the departure date from the originating country
- Travel Protection Plan: GSE offers a comprehensive travel protection plan that covers a range of benefits including medical and dental treatment abroad, cancellation due to injury, sickness, or death of a family member, passport and visa protection, flight cancellation, loss of luggage and personal effects, and cancellation due to terrorist acts (as defined). For more information, please visit the following link. TripMate Travel Insurance
- Packing Essentials: Prepare for your adventure by packing essentials such as team uniforms, passport, cleats, sneakers, sandals, shin guards, refillable water bottle, backpack, casual clothing suitable for the weather, and any other personal items you may need.
- Cash Recommendations: While credit cards and ApplePay are widely accepted, it's advisable to carry some cash for added convenience during your travels.
- Language and Cultural Assistance: A GSE representative will be available 24/7 during the trip offering assistance for all travelers, specially to those that may not speak the language or are unfamiliar with the local culture.
- Extra Activities: There may be additional activities, at extra cost, offered to the group during your experience.
REGISTRATION QUESTIONS
- Installment Payments: GSE provides the convenience of paying via installment to ensure flexibility and ease of payment for our travelers.
- Financial Assistance and Scholarships: GSE offers a fundraising option through our exclusive partners, Vyoo, providing travelers with opportunities to seek financial assistance and scholarships for their journey.
- Cancellation and Refund Policy: If you need to cancel your participation, you should connect with GSE immediately via email or phone call. Certain fees will apply depending on your cancellation case, and will be calculated as of the date GSE receives written notice of cancellation.
Cancellation Fee Schedule:
- Minimum fee is $250 per person.
- 120 to 91 days before departure is 50% of the trip price.
- 90 to 46 days before departure is 75% of the trip price.
- 45 to 0 days prior to departure is 100% of the trip price.
Full reimbursement, minus minimum fee, will be applied in the case of:
- Travelers cannot travel because of a valid medical reason (e.g. illness, season ending injury).
- Traveler can be reimbursed fully outside conditions above, if full-paying replacement for the trip is found.
For more information contact
Nick Dunbar, Chief Operating Officer,
[email protected] or call/text 860-514-2912
or Enrico Ciuffetelli at [email protected] or call/text 347-744-2757.