ECCLESHALL LINK UP WITH FOOTBALL ACADEMY
In a new initiative for the club, Eccleshall are linking up with a newly formed football academy later this year. From September 2018, Stafford Football Academy will offer an outstanding opportunity for students aged 16-19 to excel in their academic studies and football development.
The Academy, working in association with Stoke City Football Club, The University of Wolverhampton, King Edward VI High School, Stafford and Eccleshall Football Club, will give students access to excellent provision and facilities that will allow them to achieve their potential.
The curriculum will provide students with the opportunity to study for the nationally recognised Level 3 BTEC Diploma (3 A level equivalent) in sport. Alongside their studies, students will access football coaching sessions on a daily basis. On a Wednesday, students that are chosen for the team will represent the Stafford Football Academy in the BUCS League, English Schools FA Cup and other competitions.
Eccleshall secretary, Jim Tunney, said: “Towards the end of last year, we were approached by one of our former players, Kevin Warrillow, who is a teacher at King Edward VI High School and also the Course Manager of the new Academy, to see if our club would be interested in being involved. He came along to one of our committee meetings to outline further details and it was felt that it was something that we should take forward. Pershall Park will figure as part of the Academy and may provide opportunities for players in the future, among other benefits”.
Head of P.E. and Academy Coach, Dave Abel, said:
‘This is an exciting opportunity for local football talent to further progress in their football development. We’re very pleased to have Eccleshall F.C. involved with the Stafford Football Academy. Hopefully we’ll see some of our students’ progress through to their senior teams in the near future’.
Details of the Academy an be found on their website www.staffordfootballacademy.com