Last chance to apply for Kidderminster Harriers Football Academy place

Academy Manager, Andrew Blakeley said: “Year on year the Harriers Academy has developed the talent of many footballers, turning them into champions at a regional and national level. Players have gone on to join the first team and other clubs while many others have progressed to university and employment.”

The Academy programmes are delivered by Stourbridge College and combine elite level training with a BTEC sports qualification.

Academy footballers, Lewis Clarke and Dan Sweeney, both 18 have made major progress through their programmes. Lewis was recently named the Managers’ Player of the Year while Dan is a rising star within the Academy’s first team.

“Being named Managers’ Player of the Year is a proud moment in my career,” said Lewis who plays centre half. “It’s a reward for all the hard work I’ve put in, both on the pitch and in class where I studied sports coaching development and fitness.

“Being with the Academy has set up my future. I’m going to the University of Worcester in September to study physical and sports education science. I also have the option of staying on with the Harriers’ first and under 21 teams.”

Dan Sweeney has also gone from strength to strength with the first team, playing in both wing and strike positions.

“I signed my first team contract during my first 12 months at the Academy, which was a brilliant achievement,” he said. “Being part of a talented squad, training intensively and gaining a qualification makes the whole experience enjoyable.

“You always want to better yourself on and off the pitch because your teammates and coaches inspire you. You also get help with your studies if you need it, such as extra tutor support or with making sure you meet your deadlines.

Dan added: “The opportunities are there for you, both as a player and a sports student, so you can take all your skills towards whatever career path you want.”

Academy students must be aged between 16 and 18 before 31 August 2016. To register for the trials, visit this page.