Inside Our July Union Football Camp →

Union Camp Wrap-Up: Growth, Ownership & Smiles All Around

We’ve just wrapped up another powerful four-day Union Camp — and this one had a few new changes that made it even more meaningful for the kids (and us coaches too).

One of the big changes we made this time around was introducing individual player-coach meetings. Every child sat down with a coach for 10–15 minutes to reflect on four key areas:

• A mindset they wanted to shift

• A physical attribute they wanted to develop

• A technical skill they wanted to improve

• And a personal super strength they wanted to lean into

The conversations weren’t just about ticking boxes — they were about the kids taking ownership of their journey. Each one walked away with their own personal plan to work on over the next 8 weeks before the next camp rolls around. It was reflective, empowering, and a genuine highlight of the week.

We also covered two hands-on workshops—one around mindset, the other - A strength program. However, instead of giving them a set program, we gave them choices. They got to pick the areas they wanted to improve in, and we supported them in building a challenge-based plan they could run with. This way, every program was tailored to them. They chose it. They owned it.

But as always, the magic of camp went far beyond just the football.

What we witnessed throughout the week was kids showing up with determination, respect, and positivity. Everyone did everything together — no separation between boys and girls, older or younger. Whether it was cleaning up after sessions, getting gear sorted, or hyping each other up in games, the sense of togetherness was real.

We had to stay flexible with weather (classic Auckland), but even when we had to shift plans — like moving indoors or switching to a futsal tournament — the energy didn’t drop. Music was on, kids were flying around with smiles on their faces, and you could feel the values we stand for being lived out on and off the pitch.

At the core of Union is this:
We care about the person before the player.
We focus on building good people, not just good athletes.
We create a space where everyone feels seen, supported, and included — no matter where they’re at.

This camp was another reminder of what happens when you bring good coaches, good kids, and good people together. We’re proud of what the kids achieved this week — not just in football, but in how they showed up as teammates, leaders, and young humans.

Already looking forward to the next one.

Union Football - Better Together!