First Team Coach Dave Conlon spent some time with the Academy this week
It was great to visit the Academy this week and speak to the students about career opportunities as part of one of the units they are currently studying. I spoke to them about my own career pathway and different experiences I’ve been fortunate to have. I think education is important no matter what your aspirations as a young footballer are. I feel privileged to have the job I do currently but the path in football or work always takes unexpected twists and turns.
I’ve enjoyed watching the academy lads train and play several times this season and I’ve always been impressed with their attitudes and application. It was great to see them in a different environment in the classroom this time, and I was equally impressed. The tutors and coaches do an excellent job providing everyone with a platform to grow and succeed on and off the pitch.
As well as career opportunities and pathways we discussed the importance of having high standards and how a good student will make a good footballer but most importantly a good person!
This month again has seen several academy players join the 1st team to train on a regular basis at Carrington. It’s credit to the lads’ hard work and the fantastic academy staff, that earlier this month five players (Scott Holding, Cody Johnson, Keane Barugh, Josh Edwards and Kai Johnston) were part of the matchday squad for the FA Trophy game v Needham Market, showing that there really is a pathway to the 1st team!
The players continued to impress this week in the Cheshire Senior Cup as four players (Cody Johnson, Kai Johnston, Keane Barugh and Toby Green) were part of the 1st team squad who beat Crewe 5-0 in front of over a thousand fans at Edgeley Park.
Congratulations to the players who have made their senior debuts this month, hopefully this experience sees them grow as individuals and provides motivation to all the other lads.
Thanks again for inviting me in to speak to the different classes, I look forward to catching up again soon – keep working hard!
Dave Conlon
First Team Coach
