“Our Under 11s Sunday team continues to make impressive strides in the NSJYL. Seven of the squad also represent our MJPL Saturday team and have done so for the past two years, giving the group a strong core of committed and talented players.

Last season was the team’s first year competing in the NSJYL at 7‑a‑side, and they quickly made their mark. On the opening day of the 2024/25 campaign, they lifted the Doug Brown Trophy, setting the tone for what became an outstanding season. Throughout the year they remained in the top tier of the U10s age group and gained a reputation for their attractive style of play, often seen as the team to beat, which rarely happened.

Moving into the 2025/26 season, the transition to 9‑a‑side required us to expand the squad. This was made more challenging by the departure of one player to Wolves Academy, as well as two significant early‑season injuries. With only eight available players at the start, results naturally suffered, and the Young Eagles temporarily dropped out of the top tier after the first round of fixtures.

Credit goes to the players and coaching staff who stayed positive, worked hard, and continued representing Eccleshall with commitment. Their efforts in recruitment and development have paid off. The squad now stands at 12 players, although one is unavailable due to trials at Everton and Crewe Alexandra and the team has earned its place back in the top tier. Despite a stop‑start season caused by the great British weather, performances on the pitch have been excellent, and results increasingly reflect the team’s quality.

We are also fortunate to have Iris Healey, who is signed with Aston Villa but continues to play for us with the club’s support, recognising the positive developmental environment our coaches provide. Another standout is Freddie Chell, who has been dual‑signed with our Under 12s and has impressed when playing up an age group.

At this stage, the NSJYL remains a development league, and our focus is firmly on nurturing players capable of performing at a high standard. Cup competitions are yet to begin and will take place later in the season.

As a club, we are proud to have such talented young players representing Eccleshall FC. Our long‑term vision is to see our youth progress through the ranks and one day wear the first‑team shirt.”

Despite everything thrown at them, they powered through and the reward is slowly coming around.

The U11s are managed by Dan Chell alongside his two coaches Niall Maguire and Mark Richens.

Pictured is a team photo, in which you can see the squad,

Back Row | Braxton Maguire, Iris Healey(C), Elijah Harris (now at Wolves), Ted Illidge, Jahrel Griffiths, Seb Steele, Luca Hodgkinson, Eli Richens.
Front Row | Freddie Chell, Jidesochi Ikpe, Finn Lacey, Jacob Egan.
Not pictured | Maurio Papuse (newly signed).

Our U11s are proudly supported by Nick Moorhouse Roofing and Exclusively by Siobhan, however if you wish to support them in anyway, you can get in touch via our social media’s. Instagram (@eccleshallfc / @efcreserves), Facebook (Eccleshall Football Club / Eccleshall Football Club Reserves) or X (@eccleshallfc) or email danielchell@ymail.com.