Jax Named Captain on Day 1 of His West Ham Football Tour

What an extraordinary beginning to Jax’s 14-day football tour in the United Kingdom.

On Day 1 of the program with George Cowie Football and the West Ham United Foundation, Jax was given the incredible honour of being named captain.

He was selected to lead the team out at West Ham United’s home ground—a proud and unforgettable moment for a young junior soccer player who has travelled all the way from the Gold Coast in Australia.

Jax’s answer earns a round of applause

During the opening day, one of the tour organisers asked Jax a football question.

Jax confidently replied:

“If you have the ball, create pressure. If you don’t have the ball, put pressure on.”

His answer impressed everyone in the room. All the players and staff—including the head of the tour—gave Jax a round of applause.

It was a wonderful display of Jax’s confidence, understanding of the game and willingness to speak in front of the entire touring group.

Leading a group of 44 young players

The hero photograph captures the beginning of the tour and features all 44 young football players taking part in the program.

Jax can be seen sitting proudly in the very front row, right in the middle of the group.

Being selected as captain among 44 players on the very first day is a tremendous achievement and a wonderful recognition of the leadership qualities Jax has developed through junior soccer.

A special visit to West Ham United

Jax also had the opportunity to stand outside West Ham United’s home stadium wearing his claret-and-blue training shirt.

After following West Ham’s football program from Australia, finally arriving at the club’s home ground made the experience feel real.

The two-week tour will give Jax and the other selected young players opportunities to train, learn, play football and experience professional football environments across the United Kingdom.

From Palm Beach Sharks to West Ham United

Jax has worked hard throughout the 2026 season with the Palm Beach Sharks Under-10 Blue team on the Gold Coast.

Every training session, match, goal and assist has helped prepare him for this opportunity. His selection as captain on Day 1 shows that leadership is not only about playing well—it is also about communicating confidently, supporting teammates and understanding what the team needs.

Alpha Skins is enormously proud to follow Jax’s journey from junior soccer on the Gold Coast to this unforgettable football experience in England.

As always, Jax has his washable, slip-on kids’ shin guards with him, ready for the demanding training sessions ahead. Designed for junior soccer players, Alpha Skins are comfortable and lightweight, with no straps or tape.

A Day 1 to remember

Being named captain, receiving a round of applause and visiting West Ham United’s home ground made this a remarkable first day for Jax.

There are still another 13 days of football, learning and new experiences ahead, and we cannot wait to see what comes next.

Follow the Alpha Skins blog for the next chapter of Jax’s Journey to West Ham.