Mark Robinson has deservedly earned a reputation for providing young talent with a chance to flourish – and he was the only coach to answer an aspiring footballer’s call for a trial!
Nick Humphries sent messages to clubs all around the country requesting an opportunity to show what he could do, but without success until Robbo’s intervention.
Though he ultimately didn’t earn a contract with us after his trial with our academy, Nick was very grateful for the chance to shine at Wimbledon. As well as uploading a video to social media, Nick also thanked Robbo on LinkedIn.
“I trawled through every website in the English football pyramid and I e-mailed clubs one by one,” Nick recalled. “Mark Robinson sent me a reply and said if you would soon like to trial for AFC Wimbledon please ring me. A few weeks later I got on a plane, flew to London from Budapest, and I went to Wimbledon. It was just one coach and 30 kids. Mark was open and friendly.
“After three training sessions, Mark said I didn’t make the grade, but I’m thankful he took a chance on me. I’m pleased to hear that AFC Wimbledon took a chance on him too. He’s now Head Coach at this historic club! Good luck Mark and I hope to meet you again in the future.”
Nick is now playing football in Switzerland and he set-up his own Football Academy called Train Effective.
Watch Nick’s full message by clicking on the link below.