Miller
Our son Miller has been part of the academy for the past two and a half years, having joined at just four years old. Now, approaching seven, we’ve seen remarkable growth, not only in his footballing ability but also in his confidence, mindset, and overall maturity.
The impact of the academy extends far beyond the pitch. Miller brings what he learns into our garden at home, to school, and even back to the UK during vacations. The coaching team has been exceptional from day one: professional, encouraging, and highly skilled. They’ve invested real time in developing him as an individual player, fine-tuning his skills and regularly challenging him by integrating him into older age groups, such as the U8s and U9s.
This experience has been invaluable, significantly enhancing his technical ability, game awareness, and resilience. It’s something we’ve seen validated time and again when he returns to the UK and plays at a noticeably higher level, whether with his age group or in football camps.
What we’ve appreciated most is the genuine sense of community and the academy’s unwavering commitment to player development. It’s a place where children are encouraged to reach their potential in a positive, structured, and inspiring environment, all while maintaining a deep love for the game.
We would wholeheartedly recommend the academy to any family seeking a football program where their child can truly thrive, both as a young footballer and as part of a supportive, high-standard coaching environment.
Lucas, Gabriel & Seth
Having played football at various levels in the U.K. , we were keen to get our 3 boys into a football academy after moving to Abu Dhabi. At first I was apprehensive about this because I felt that it would not be set up like a grassroots team in the U.K, which has a community feeling and the support that comes along with it.
Our family has been with the Academy for 3 years and the set up is exactly what you get with the Desert Thistle FC. A place where the kids can grow and develop their skills and be given the chance to play competitive football across all levels, with a great set of coaches who are invested in the kids. This has led to memorable achievements both on and off the field and some great international experiences for the kids that the academy has facilitated.
Desert Thistle FC also has a great family community and support that comes along with it. Which has built friendships that have extended beyond the Academy and games.
I highly recommend you to come and experience what the Desert Thistle FC Academy has to offer.
Hudson
As a parent, finding the right football club for my son Hudson was a top priority. We were fortunate to discover Desert Thistle FC, and it has been an incredible journey for Hudson and our family.
From the very first day, the coaches and staff at Desert Thistle FC have shown exceptional dedication and professionalism. They have created a nurturing and supportive environment that has allowed Hudson to thrive both on and off the field.
The training sessions are well-structured, focusing not only on developing technical skills but also on fostering teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. Hudson has grown tremendously as a player under the guidance of the experienced coaches at Desert Thistle FC. Their personalized approach to coaching has helped him improve his skills, build confidence, and develop a deep love for the game. The club’s emphasis on holistic development has also positively impacted Hudson’s academic performance and overall well-being.
One of the standout aspects of Desert Thistle FC is the sense of community it fosters. The club organizes various events and activities that bring together players, parents, and coaches, creating a strong bond among everyone involved. This sense of belonging has made Hudson’s experience even more enriching and enjoyable.
We are grateful to Desert Thistle FC for providing Hudson with such a positive and transformative experience. The club has not only helped him become a better footballer but also instilled valuable life skills that will benefit him in the future. We highly recommend Desert Thistle FC to any parent looking for a top-notch football club for their child.
Rishaan
We have been part of the academy for almost two years now, and it’s been such a positive experience from day one. The coaches – Mark, David and Izzy, have created an environment that really focuses on each child’s development, both on and off the pitch. They strike a great balance between teaching the game and helping the kids grow as teammates and individuals.
The sessions are well-structured, thoughtful and always engaging. What we’ve really appreciated is how the coaches take the time to understand where each child is in their journey and tailor their approach accordingly. There’s a real sense that they care, and that shows in how the kids respond.
The community around the club is something special too. The other parents have been warm and welcoming, and there’s a real effort to create opportunities for families to connect, whether it’s match days or club events, it always feels like more than just football.
We’re really grateful to be part of the academy and would happily recommend it to any family looking for a place where their child can enjoy the game, learn, and grow in a supportive environment.
Fares & Selim
My boys joined the academy in January 2021, and since then football has become a true passion for them. They are always excited to train, and the sense of teamwork and community has been incredible. My son, who plays as a goalkeeper, is especially enjoying both the regular and specialized training, and his performance has been improving continuously.
We are very grateful to the coaches for creating such a supportive environment and for making Desert Thistle feel like a big family. I would highly recommend the academy to any family looking for a professional, caring, and inspiring place for their children.
Timmoe & Malik
This is our third year at Desert Thistle Academy, and it has been a great experience for both our boys and our family. What we’ve enjoyed most is being part of such a welcoming community where the children grow in confidence, teamwork, and skill.
The away trip was a real highlight – so well organized and such a fantastic experience for the boys to bond and play as a team. The end-of-year award ceremony was also a special touch, celebrating each child’s effort and achievements in such a positive way.
We would absolutely recommend the academy to any new families looking for not just great football training, but a supportive environment where kids truly thrive.
Lochlan
We have had a great experience with the club over the last two years. Our son has really grown, not only in his footballing skills, but in his confidence. As he is a goalkeeper, the additional goalkeeper coaching he has received has been exceptional and the improvement has been amazing. In general the coaching is very solid and professional, but also in a way that nurtures the children. I highly recommend Desert Thistle to anyone who would like to have their kids learn and enjoy their football.
Laith
Laith has been with the academy for four years now, and it’s been such a positive experience for him. He really enjoys being part of the team—he looks forward to the training, the games, and especially learning from the coaches, who have been incredibly supportive and encouraging.
A real highlight for Laith has been playing in the league matches, which have helped build his confidence and love for the game. One of his proudest moments was being awarded the Under-9 Player of the Year—something he’ll never forget!
As a parent, I’ve really appreciated the sense of community within the academy. It’s a place where children are not only challenged to grow as players but also supported in becoming confident, respectful individuals.
I would absolutely recommend the academy to others. It’s a fantastic environment for any child who loves the game and wants to be part of a team that feels like family.