Cray Wanderers launch academy set-up

CRAY WANDERERS are proud to announce that it has formed a partnership with Coopers Technology College in Chislehurst to set up a youth academy from September, writes Stephen McCartney.

Coopers Technology College will offer a 2-year BTEC Sports National Diploma (level 3). The course will offer the equivalent to three “A” levels that will allow each student the opportunity to study at University as well as gaining FA Coaching Qualifications and Sports Leadership Awards.

The academy players will then work on all aspects of playing the game including individual skills, fitness and tactics.

They will also play in the Conference National Youth League on a Wednesday - similar to local Kent clubs, Ebbsfleet United and Dartford.

The structure of the programme will also mean that the players will also have the potential to support the first team squad, currently second place in the Ryman League Division One South table.

Club chairman, Gary Hillman, speaking to www.craywands.co.uk, says this is an important move for the club.

“This is a very proud moment for the club and also highlights the progress we have made over the last few years,” he said.

“Since the youth section was set up, they have developed every year and have become one of the most successful, biggest and respected programmes in the area.”

Praising the youth team organisation, Mr Hillman, said, “The encouraging aspect of the academy is that it isn’t a surprise as the teams have got stronger and stronger year on year.

“It was inevitable that we had to set up the academy as this has been shown in the last few months with youth players getting opportunities to play in the senior team.

“I would like to say a big thank you and well down to everyone involved with the youth teams.”

Speaking about why Coopers Technology College was chosen for the academy, Mr Hillman added, “We had discussions with several schools that were very interested to host the 2 year BTEC Sports National Diploma (level 3) course, but were impressed with not only the facilities currently at Coopers but also their plans for the future. It’s also ideally located as well.

“We have already had a lot of initial interest and if anyone who hasn’t registered and is interested, they should so as soon as possible.”

For full details, click on this link

www.craywands.co.uk/component/content/article/96-coopers