Eddie Brenninkmeijer (Age 14) – Goalkeeper Scouted by Oxford United, Cheltenham FC & AFC Wimbledon

His footballing path began at Westside FC, his first grassroots club, which he joined aged 10. After a short spell at Rocks Lane FC in Barnes, he returned to Westside before being invited to join Motspur Park FC, where he still plays today.
Last year, Eddie attended a UK Football Trial and was scouted by QPR, Leyton Orient and Woking FC. He opted to join Woking, whose training schedule best aligned with his school commitments. However, after a season there, he chose to return to Motspur Park — a team where he felt truly at home.
This year, Eddie attended the UK Football Trials residential camp, and the experience proved just as impactful.
“It’s just the best experience,” Eddie said. “It’s up there with the highlights of my life so far!”
During the five-day camp, Eddie was scouted by three clubs: Oxford United, Cheltenham FC, and AFC Wimbledon. Although Oxford and Cheltenham were too far away to pursue logistically, he’s now preparing for trials with AFC Wimbledon, which are set to take place in the coming weeks.
Eddie’s reflections on the trial highlight not just the football but the emotional and mental lessons he took with him.
“I learned more about myself — my resilience, my strengths, my weaknesses,” he said. “Luke Stanton was brilliant at helping me get my mindset right. It wasn’t just about the technical side, it was also about facing fears and nerves head-on.”
One of the biggest takeaways for Eddie was the importance of self-belief.
“Everyone there is so talented. You have to believe you’re as good as they are — if not better. Not in an arrogant way, but in a focused and self-aware way. You’ve got to be willing to take risks and push yourself beyond your comfort zone.”
His best moment?
“There were so many! Coming back to Ardingly, seeing the coaches and staff again, the amazing football, the motivational talks… But making some big saves on the final day, knowing that scouts were watching — that was special.”
Eddie would recommend UK Football Trials to anyone serious about football.
“I honestly think they might be the best in the world at what they do. Players had flown in from all over the world to be there. The atmosphere is intense but incredibly supportive. It’s so well organised, and everyone — from the coaches to the physio — is genuinely lovely.”
“After the fantastic week at UK Football Trials in April, Eddie was scouted by Brentford FC,” his family shared. “They invited him in for a trial, and he was so excited to get started.” Eddie, an U14 goalkeeper, attended his first session this week and made an immediate impression. “He played really well during the match, making some great saves and showing good composure on the ball,” they said. The highlight came right after the game: “Brentford coaches offered him a four-week trial on the spot. He couldn’t stop smiling all the way home!” His family added: “We can’t thank UK Football Trials enough for facilitating such an incredible opportunity.
The event was so professional and really gave him the chance to show what he can do in front of real scouts.” Eddie himself is fully focused on making the most of the next few weeks. “He knows this is a huge opportunity,” they said. “He’s determined to work hard and give it everything.” It’s an exciting next step in his football journey, and the family said they’d “absolutely recommend UK Football Trials to any player wanting to get seen. It really works.”

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