RH3 Football Academy Melbourne Tour 2024

RH3 Football Academy Players reflect on their Melbourne Tour experience

“In the heart of New Zealand, the Ricki Herbert Football Academy (RH3) is renowned for its commitment to nurturing young football talent. Among its most transformative programmes are the international tours and national camps, offering players unparalleled opportunities for growth both on and off the pitch.

One such journey took a group of aspiring footballers to Melbourne, Australia. The tour was meticulously designed to provide competitive play and cultural exchange, allowing players to test their skills against elite teams and learn from diverse coaching styles.

Gethyn Foster recalls his tour, “My experience on tour with RH3 was memorable. Throughout the week, the competition was exceptional, providing not only a challenging experience, but also an opportunity to push ourselves in new conditions and on different stages. With the help and guidance of the elite set of coaches, we quickly melded as a team. The experience not only brought new connections and lifelong learnings but also unforgettable memories throughout our time on tour in Melbourne.”

The itinerary included training sessions at prestigious A-League clubs, where players experienced professional-level coaching and facilities. Matches against local teams challenged them to adapt and elevate their game, fostering resilience and teamwork. Beyond the field, cultural excursions enriched their understanding of the global football landscape, broadening their horizons and creating lasting memories.

Taane Wetere speaks about those A-League Club opportunities; "My recent football tour to Shepparton was nothing short of incredible! Winning the tournament was a thrill and a testament to our hard work and dedication. Beyond the competition, meeting players from all over New Zealand added a unique and enriching dimension to the experience. One of the highlights was the opportunity to train overseas at some of the top training grounds. The variety of specialist coaches we had the chance to learn from was truly invaluable. Their expertise and insights helped elevate our skills and understanding of the game. Playing against top teams from Victoria was a challenging and rewarding experience. It pushed us to our limits and helped us grow both as individuals and as a team. Overall, the tour was a perfect blend of intense competition, learning, and cultural exchange.”

This Melbourne tour exemplified RH3's dedication to providing world-class football experiences, preparing young athletes for future success by exposing them to international standards and diverse playing styles. Such initiatives are a testament to the academy's mission to develop the next generation of New Zealand footballers, equipping them with the skills and experiences necessary to excel both nationally and internationally.

And first-time tourist Reuben Rose reflects on his first experience; “My time on the RH3 tour was fantastic. Doing the one thing I love for 8 days couldn’t sound much better. When I got there, I got to make new friends only had been opposition in the past and now after the tour becoming friends for life. The RH3 tour was super fun and super challenging. The games leading up to the Shepparton Cup were really tough but we ended up winning both due to some hard fought individual battles showing just what RH3 is about. Then the Cup was excellent making it all the way to the semi and having to play our mates from the other RH3 team then winning the whole thing. It was a memory that I’ll always cherish. The RH3 tour was a great experience, and I’d recommend it for anyone considering doing it again or for next year.”

For a glimpse into these experiences of RH3 players on tour, you might find this video insightful:”