EXCLUSIVE

by Hayley Robinson

Dreams of setting up a football academy in Sittingbourne have finally become a reality.

The Sittingbourne Messenger can exclusively reveal the facility has been established in time for the 2011-2012 season thanks to a partnership between Sittingbourne FC and Sittingbourne Community College (SCC).

It’s hoped the venture will open doors for talented young footballers aspiring to become the next David Beckham.

The academy was due to open earlier this year but the plans were delayed when former international footballer Michael Hughes entered into negotiations in February to take over Sittingbourne FC.

The proposal was abandoned last month.

Club secretary John Pitts said: "Youngsters who have been interested in the academy route have had to look further afield to progress their dream.

"Over the last two seasons, Sittingbourne FC has used players from other Kent football academies and we have always felt it would be good to give players from Sittingbourne a chance to show their footballing skills.

"Not many other clubs have used academy players in their first team as much as us and we are delighted that hopefully some homegrown players will play for our first Xl in the not too distant future."

Trials for academy places are due to be held at the college between 5pm and 7pm on Tuesday, May 24. Lads aged 16 to 17 are invited to fill out an application form to try out for one of 20 places available on either a one or two-year course.

Successful applicants will start in September and attend training on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays during term-time while studying for a range of post-16 qualifications such as a Level 2 Btec first diploma or a Level 3 Btec National or A-levels or GCSEs.

The team will play in either the Conference Youth League or the English Schools’ Football Association league.

The cost of the courses will be covered by SCC but Sittingbourne FC will be paying for a UEFA-qualified coach to work with youngsters.