A new football scholarship programme, launched and supported by Sunderland AFC Academy Manager Ged McNamee, will give 16-19 year olds the chance to represent Sunderland against other Premier League and Football League teams whilst gaining nationally recognised qualifications.
Sunderland AFC charity, Foundation of Light are recruiting for the Football Scholarship Programme commencing in September 2016 and will be holding open trials for promising young players.
The programme combines academic studies with high level football coaching and the opportunity to represent Sunderland in the National U19s Football Development League against high level opposition including Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham.
The football coaching aspect of the programme will be delivered in partnership with Shildon AFC as part of Foundation of Light’s ongoing commitment to support grassroots sport in the area.
Foundation of Light has had an outreach base in Shildon since 2013 delivering sports and education programmes.
Whilst on the Football Scholarship Programme participants will undertake the nationally recognised BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity qualification (the equivalent of three A-levels) which can lead into further education, universities and employment.
The two year, full-time programme is free for 16-19 years olds with centres running in Sunderland and Shildon.
Michael Havelock, Foundation of Light Sport and Play Curriculum Lead said: “It’s fantastic to be able to bring this programme to Shildon and give aspiring young sportspeople the chance to develop their skills and knowledge.
“We’ve worked in the area for some time now and we know the passion local people have for sport and football. This programme will allow young school leavers the chance to start turning this passion into a career.”
Ged McNamee, Academy Manager at Sunderland AFC said: “We are delighted to be associated with a programme which will help young people become involved in sport, not only on a recreational basis but hopefully leading to employment or further study within the sports profession.
“Foundation of Light’s community outreach programmes are second to none and we must continue to use the expertise within the local community to provide the best opportunities for our young students of today.”
Foundation of Light’s Martin Jones, who has run similar programmes with great success in other areas previously, said: “The Football Scholarship Programme is a fantastic opportunity for promising young players who want to pursue a career in football.
“They will enjoy top quality coaching, regular football at a very competitive level and improve their CV, opening the doors to higher education or employment.”
Martin’s previous successes include helping players progress into professional teams in England and abroad, seeing one player appear in the England U18s, and 80% of players progress into university.
Martin added: “Being the only organisation in the North East to offer this opportunity we expect the quality of players on the programme to be high and we’re very excited about meeting those interested.”
The Foundation is holding a special open evening at the Stadium of Light on Wednesday, February 24th for potential players to find out more.
For players who are currently studying in Year 11 and 12 it will give them an insight into the course and opportunity to see course programme and content.
For an informal chat about the programme and to book onto the open evening, contact Martin Jones on 0191 551 5191 or email martin.jones@foundationoflight.co.uk.
Shildon & District's local community newspaper.
