The Central Coast Mariners youth squad is off to China for the next ten days.
Led by former Mariner and Youth Development Co-ordinator Damien Brown, the three squads, featuring players from the club's Under 12's, Under 14's and Under 16's Junior and Youth Academy programs, will play four matches and train at state of the art facilities in Beijing, including the iconic Birds Nest Stadium.
Brown said it was a great opportunity for the talented youngsters in the region to experience, for a short time, the life of a professional footballer.
"Every year we offer an opportunity to go away with the academy, last year was New Caledonia and this year is China," he said. "The tour director has lined up four games and we'll be training every second day.
"As we all know the National Youth League side is travelling every second week so this can help them prepare if they end up taking the next step.
"It's not just about the football, it gives the kids a chance to experience other cultures, and making sure we're educating them as well which is all part of the academy.
"It'll be good to teach them a few life lessons as well, and that's what we've told their coaches, to make sure they are good boys. It will be an all round Football and Cultural experience."
During the trip, the players will also get an understanding about the Media and Promotional aspect of life as an athlete, as they will be required to submit daily blogs, which will be featured on www.ccmariners.com.au throughout the trip.