Academy Manager Damien Allen updates us on what’s been going on at the Academy in March…
The academy has now entered the final run-in to the season’s end, and it looks to be an exciting finale for all our groups still involved in competitive fixtures, as well as numerous academy players being involved for Stockport Town.
Additionally, as mentioned in February, it is great to see that the first team have continued their great form in the quest for promotion, as by being in the Football League, it would enable us to apply for a category status for the 2022/23 season.
Throughout the month of March, a lot of hard work has gone on behind the scenes in preparation for this. However, the academy will continue to improve no matter what, with key enhancements being made within the senior and junior academies, as well as the introduction of our first girl’s academy. We are fortunate that everyone involved at the club shares the same ambition and drive to keep improving the experiences, opportunities, and expertise for all our players.
Recent result has put our 1st years title push in the U19 H Division League on hold. However, the team are still second in the league and in with a chance of finishing the season with some silverware. I wish all the players in this squad and Michael Raynes the best of luck in their remaining fixtures.
We have continued to see many of our academy players gain valuable experience training with Stockport County’s and Stockport Town’s first team. Recently, many of our academy players have been involved with the first team during the FA Trophy fixtures, with no less than FIVE academy players involved in the game against Needham Market, each making their mark. It is a testament to the hard work the academy coaches have been doing behind the scenes here at SSV.
Finally, we have begun speaking to all our players regarding plans for next season, specifically the second-year players, who will each receive an individual player care pack created solely for them in the coming weeks. The second-year players have also attended presentations this month regarding exit pathways with Spain scholarships company STEPP Football, and we will also be having UCFB come and visit the Academy next week talking to the players about the opportunities on offer there. First Team Coach Dave Conlon also attended the academy this month, giving a fantastic presentation on coaching pathways the players can take in their future careers.
Finally, I would like to thank all the parents/carers for your ongoing support throughout the Academy year, your support does not go unnoticed, and we hope to see you all again very soon!
