We are absolutely delighted to announce that Bradford (Park Avenue) AFC and Bradford College are teaming up to provide a top-class football academy for aspiring 16-18 year old male and female footballers.
We have been reviewing our Academy provision since the early ending of last season. This detailed review has been taken with input from the clubs main stakeholders and then underpinned with a clear vision of what we fundamentally believe a leading community Academy program should deliver in terms of footballing and academic education. At the centre of this is a the sense of responsibility we have to our students and their development as young adults. With the help of Robert Clunas of the Horsfall Community Trust and the input of our Academy Manager, Bradford College were identified as being the perfect partner to offer the best learning environment with the broadest range of courses to suit all learning levels and interests.
The academy will provide a full-time football training and games programme alongside full-time education from September this year.
Asa Gordon, Assistant Principal at Bradford College, added: “This is a fantastic opportunity to engage young people in education and sport, combining football and study in a full-time environment.”
Players will have access to GPS data, match analysis and a potential pathway into professional football – all under the supervision and guidance from experienced UEFA qualified professional coaches.
As well as potentially becoming footballers, the academy will also offer pathways to other areas of the football profession as healthcare, sports science, management and coaching. Alongside the football training side, a range of courses at Bradford College across different curriculum areas will be available to choose from and will cater for a wide range of educational needs.
All football activity will take place at the Horsfall Community Stadium on the state-of-the-art 4g surface while the education will be based at Bradford College campuses.
Tom McStravick, BPA Academy Manager, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Bradford College to deliver a top-quality education provision alongside a five-star football service for young males and females. This partnership will ensure we are able to provide a high-quality scholarship programme like no other for the local people. I’m looking forward to working together to ensure a long a fruitful relationship.
Beverly Fox, Head of Professional Services & Leisure at Bradford College, said: “Through this partnership, we are offering young people with a passion for the sport a unique opportunity to create exceptional careers in the field and join a new generation of football heroes.”
Anyone wishing to trial for the academy should get in touch with Tom McStravick on 07821579451 or email thomas.mcstravick@bpafc.com