FC United unveil Academy partnership

FC United of Manchester officially teamed up with Manchester College on Tuesday to launch their new jointly run Football Youth Academy.

The Academy will open its doors to the first group of players in September 2013 at a new state-of-the-art training and playing facility at FC United’s new stadium in Moston.

The Rebels announced the partnership during a press conference at the college after joining forces with academics to give local footballing talent the opportunity to develop their skills and gain academic qualifications on full time courses.

Andy Walsh, FC United general manager, said: "The development of a full-time academy with The Manchester College represents a significant step forward for FC United player development.

"We have had considerable success developing young players already over the last six years of our relationship with the college and look forward to offering enhanced opportunities in the future."

Paul Bright from The Manchester College said the new Academy will aim to give young people with footballing talent opportunities to develop their skills and improve tactically, technically and physically, with the chance to progress on to a football career.

Bright and the Rebels believe young players not only need to learn and develop as footballers, but also as individuals. As a results, alongside their football education, the youth academy players will study for an academic qualification of their choice under the guidance and support of The Manchester College, allowing them to develop academically and socially.

Bright said: "The focus of the Academy is very much on the individual. Each student can choose a qualification to suit their personal needs and goals. From sports related qualifications to A Levels to Apprenticeships, the College will provide guidance and support to every student, preparing them for whatever path they decide to take on leaving the Academy.”

The Manchester College and FC United are now planning to hold a series of football trials from now until August 2013. Selected players will be offered a two year scholarship at the Academy.

On completion of the two year programme, the students will have access to playing opportunities in FC United First Team, partner football clubs and professional clubs in the North West and beyond.

The Academy will also provide a stepping stone for players into opportunities beyond football playing careers - higher education, employment and volunteering opportunities.

Launch party - representatives from The Manchester College and FC United are pictured joining forces to launch the new Youth Football Academy. Pictured (left to right) – Julian Smith, The Manchester College; Scott Cheetham, FC United First Team; Andy Walsh, FC United General Manager; Karl Marginson, FC United manager and tutor at The Manchester College; Carlos Roca, FC United First Team; Barry Atkins, The Manchester College; Paul Bright, The Manchester College and Jack Carney, Principal, The Manchester College.