Author Dan Freedman Inspires Alconbury Students With Stories of Soccer, Writing, and Following Dreams
ALCONBURY, England — Fourth- and fifth-grade students at Alconbury Elementary School, joined by middle school students from Alconbury Middle High School, welcomed award-winning author and journalist Dan Freedman for an engaging author visit Jan. 21 that highlighted perseverance, creativity, and the power of pursuing one’s passions.
The joint event brought together students across grade levels for two interactive sessions. During his presentations, Freedman shared his lifelong love of soccer and explained how reading newspaper match reports as a child sparked his interest in writing. Although he was not a professional player, Freedman described how writing allowed him to stay “on the pitch,” eventually leading to a successful career as a football journalist, managing editor for The Football Association, and later a best-selling children’s author.
Freedman captivated students with stories from his career, including interviews with world-famous athletes such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and David Beckham, as well as memorable experiences working with the English national team. He also spoke candidly about struggling with reading and writing early in his life, emphasizing how determination and a love of the sport helped him discover his voice as a writer — a message that resonated strongly with students.
Elementary students were introduced to Freedman’s popular book series as he read excerpts from his work and discussed how his stories are developed. Middle school students in grades six through eight attended a second session that focused on goal-setting, resilience, and the importance of going after dreams, even when the path forward is challenging. Freedman read from Unstoppable, a young adult novel about twins pursuing careers in football and tennis while navigating difficult life choices.
Students eagerly asked questions throughout both sessions, ranging from what it takes to become a writer to Freedman’s experiences traveling the world through journalism.
“It was a pleasure to speak with the students — one of my best school visits ever,” Freedman said. “Huge thanks to Susan Berneau and Joann Fuller for inviting me to your vibrant, thriving school and organizing such a great day. I will always remember it, and I hope the experience encourages the students to go for their goals.”
Teachers also noted how relatable Freedman’s story was for students.
“Dan Freedman shared with our students that he struggled with reading and writing at school,” said Kelly Sandoval, a fifth-grade teacher. “However, his love of soccer helped him discover his passion for writing and ultimately led him to become an author. That experience made him highly relatable to our students, which I greatly appreciated.”
Students reflected on the visit as both inspiring and eye-opening.
“I enjoyed learning that being a writer can take you all over the world,” said Xavier D, a fifth-grade student.
“I loved how Mr. Freedman told us a story of how sports can bring all people together,” added fifth-grader Anika M.
Following the presentations, Freedman signed books for students and surprised the audience by gifting one student an autographed Premier League soccer ball.
The visit was made possible through the support of the Alconbury Elementary Parent-Teacher Organization and the Alconbury Middle High School School Activity Fund. Organizers said the experience left a lasting impression on students, reinforcing the idea that curiosity, perseverance, and a love of reading can open doors to unexpected and exciting opportunities.
