Godiva Training Day Update

Godiva Training Day – A New Approach to Subbuteo Development!

The ESA is proud to support this brilliant new initiative by Godiva Subbuteo Club and in partnership with the ESA's Sam Curtis, the Godiva Training Day.

This innovative event is designed for players of all abilities, whether you're sharpening your skills for the next tournament or just beginning your journey into the modern game.

Coventry Godiva SC – ESA Training Day

Date: Sunday 20th July 2025

Venue: Jaguar Social Club, Coventry

Entry Fee: £10

Taking place in a structured, hands-on environment, the training day will give attendees the chance to focus on key gameplay fundamentals, build practical flicking routines, and take part in targeted drills that can be applied immediately at club nights and in competitive matches.

Here’s what Sam had to say about the upcoming day and how it will run:

Godiva Training Day Format – Words from Sam Curtis

“First of all, a big thank you to everyone who’s already signed up for the Godiva Training Day, it’s shaping up to be a great day of learning, development and fun. Whether you're preparing for your next tournament or looking to take that first step towards the modern game, the goal is to make sure every player leaves with practical drills and ideas they can take away and use at club nights or in friendly matches. Which will in turn help you in competitive play.”

“Since this kind of training day hasn't really been done before, I wanted to share a breakdown of how the day will run and what to expect from each session.”

What to Expect

Each session will:

• Focus on key aspects of gameplay

• Include a short introduction explaining the why behind the drill

• Highlight how the drill translates into real match scenarios

There will be seven focused training sessions throughout the day, followed by a final Q&A session to round things off. The structure has been carefully planned to ensure the day remains fun, informative, and packed with value.

Training Day Schedule

🕤 09:30 – Session One: Warm-Up Matches

Paired match-ups chosen by Sam to ease into the day and get the ball rolling. Players will be asked to provide feedback on their opponent’s game after the match.

🕥 10:30 – Session Two: 5 vs 5 Match Drill

Focuses on attacking space, timing, re-organising defence, and team structure.

🕦 11:30 – Session Three: Two-Touch Play

Improve ball control and flick accuracy with restricted touches — ideal for sharpening thinking, positioning, and build-up play.

🕧 12:30 – Lunch Break

🕐 13:00 – Session Four: Shooting Zones Targeted practice on where and when to shoot.

🕑 14:00 – Session Five: Possession Play

Work on holding the ball and building up patiently. A session on slowing the game down and gaining control.

🕝 14:45 – Session Six: Goalkeeping & Shots (Not Penalties)

Focused drills on approaching shots and keeper control.

🕒 15:15 – Session Seven: Team or Friendly Match

Depending on numbers, participants will either take part in a short team event or enjoy some friendly match play to put newly learned skills into action.

🕓 16:00 – Session Eight: Q&A

Open discussion — ask anything about tactics, set-pieces, flicking techniques, or anything else you'd like advice on.

🕠 16:30 – 17:00 – Finish

Sam closes with:

“Looking forward to seeing you all there! If you’ve got any questions ahead of the day, feel free to drop me a message.”

This is a unique opportunity to learn from an experienced player in a welcoming and encouraging environment. Spaces are limited, so if you’re interested in developing your game or simply want a great day of Subbuteo with like-minded people, don’t miss out, get in touch and secure your place today!

For more details or to sign up, contact Sam Curtis, via Facebook or the ESA via our usual channels.