Young Vale football stars set for bright future - 01/02/07
The Football Development Unit at the Vale of Glamorgan Council
is playing a pivotal role in helping to further the careers of an
increasing number of local youngsters.
The exceptionally talented boys either currently play or have
previously played in mini or junior teams as part of the Vale's
Football Academy which is based at the Colcot Sports Centre in
Barry and managed by Assistant Football Development Officer Nathan
Nurton.
The Football Development Unit has built up a good working
relationship with Cardiff City Football Club through its Vale
scout, Howard Ross, who is always on the look out for up and coming
talent.
Howard has watched Vale Academy players recommended by Nathan
and his team and, since 2005, identified 12 players with the
potential to progress.
Curtis Watkins and Lewis Latner were signed up in 2005 and 2006
respectively and already play for Cardiff City’s Academy and 10
other players could follow in their footsteps.
Players already signed up for the Cardiff City Advanced
Development Centre are Josh Thomas, Anton Grigoriou, Lloyd
Phillips, Josh Harris and Reuben Bryl. David Shallis is joining on
trial.
Youngsters James Longman and Rhys James are being assessed over
a six-week period with a view to joining the City Academy, while
Jack Fitchett and Edryd Thomas have already finished their trial
and are eagerly awaiting results.
The range of talent represents sides from under-8 to under-13
level, and Nathan said: “It’s a real boost for the Vale that so
many of our young players have been identified as having the
potential to progress. The boys should be really proud to be on
trial for Cardiff City as it could lead to a scholarship when they
turn 16."
Cabinet Member for Tourism and Leisure Cllr Gwyn John was
equally delighted to learn of the news, adding: “To have so many
players on trial or signed up is a testament to the Vale’s
excellent football development system and their success in
nurturing players.”
To find out more about football development opportunities in the
Vale, contact Nathan Nurton on (01446) 704729.