Going the extra mile - by car, plane, bus and ferry!

Two of our young Westray students are fulfilling their goal of attending football training - despite a journey across the sea! 

Davy Hutchison and Jack Seatter spend 18 hours away from home for a one-hour weekly training session with the Orkney Football Academy in Kirkwall. 

We think you’ll agree that Jack and Davy are a shining example of going the extra mile - like so many of our students. 

The journey: 

* Leave school at 3pm and take an Islander flight to Kirkwall  

* Catch a bus into the town 

* Join their teammates at training (7-8pm) 

* An overnight stay with family 

* Up early to catch the first ferry back to Westray. 

The Academy coaches have been so inspired by the youngsters they have created a short video documenting their efforts. 

One of the coaches, Steven Edwards, said: “Their dedication and commitment sets an example for everyone at the Academy. They are a pleasure to coach.” 

Proud Mums, Shelagh Hutchison and Kayleigh Seatter said the lads have always loved football. 

They explained: “At present there is no formal football training in Westray for their age group, though there is often a group of gathered at the football pitch for a kick around! 

“The boys were both keen to attend some training if they could.” 

Having been at Ross County football training camps in Orkney previously, the lads got to know some of the Orkney Academy boys through that. 

“We pay for the travel and training ourselves but are very fortunate to have grant support through the Westray Development Trust for which we are very grateful.” 

Both avid Man Utd fans, the boys are willing to put the extra time in to get to the training.  

Jack said: “It’s definitely worth it to improve on our skills and it’s good to catch up with the friends we have made.” 

Davy added: “We don’t mind the extra effort as it’s all worth it. The coaches are brilliant and really supportive making that hour of training really count.” 

The Mums added: “It is a big commitment, but they really enjoy doing it. We are very proud of them and it’s great to hear the feedback from the Football Academy who are incredibly supportive of the boys.” 

Chair of the Council’s Education, Leisure and Housing Committee, Councillor Gwenda Shearer, said: “It’s heartwarming to hear of Jack and Davy’s level of commitment to training at the Academy clearly demonstrating their dedication to the sport. They should be proud of themselves. 

“We are lucky in Orkney to have the array of extra-curricular activities to benefit our communities - and even that stretch of sea is not a barrier to some thanks to our ferry and air networks.”