On Monday 4th May 2026, Vicarage Road Stadium was packed with excitement as more than 300 young footballers enjoyed the chance to play on the award-winning Watford FC pitch during the hugely popular Play Like A Pro event.
Blessed with good weather, participants experienced what it feels like to step into the boots of a professional footballer, taking part in a series of coaching sessions led by Watford FC’s Community Sports & Education Trust’s (Trust) qualified coaches. Across four sessions, children enjoyed a mixture of skill-based drills, games, and matchplay on the Vicarage Road turf.
The experience went far beyond football alone. Participants were also given an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the home changing rooms before walking out of the players’ tunnel and onto the pitch in front of family and friends watching proudly from the Sir Elton John Stand.
Adding to the atmosphere was a special appearance from Harry the Hornet, who spent time meeting players, posing for photos, and celebrating with participants throughout the day.
Play Like A Pro continues to be one of the Trust’s most in-demand events, giving young supporters a memorable day inside the home of the Hornets while also helping to raise important funds for the charity’s work across Hertfordshire and surrounding areas.
One parent said:
“I thought it was absolutely brilliant! It was such a fantastic opportunity, and my son loved every minute of it! It was so well organised and communicated, all staff were wonderful, friendly and helpful and it was a pleasure to be a part of it. Thank you to everyone for giving him such a brilliant day!”
The Trust delivers a wide variety of football opportunities across the year, including football camps, player development programmes, matchday experiences, and special events such as Train Like A Pro and Play Like A Pro. For more information, visit our website, or follow @WFCTrust on social media.