Plenty of positives from North East Parkies United's first tournament
There were plenty of positive signs for North East Parkies United in their first official tournament since founding in September 2024.
Both lads came in as good footballers and after adapting to the full-time programme they've really kicked on and they both deserve the opportunity they've been given.
Alan Young, Foundation Shildon Scholars coachBurnley Academy Manager, Jonathan Pepper, told spennymoortownfc.co.uk: "The lads didn’t look out of place during their time here. We have been tracking and monitoring their progress for around two months. "Craig is a throwback to an old-fashioned striker and is not afraid to be physical and compete, something which is rare with academy players. "Lewis is very composed on the ball and reads the game well, and he could potentially play a number of positions as it’s clear that he is a good all-round footballer. "First, we will get them integrated into the group and look at areas for development. In terms of the future, we will be looking to move them into the Under 23 side which would get them a little bit closer to the first team. "At some stage, we would look at possibly sending them out on loan, but that is very much in the long-term plan." Foundation of Light's Football Scholarship gives 16-18 year olds the opportunity to represent Sunderland AFC and gain nationally recognised qualifications through an intensive football and education programme. Players have the opportunity to be recruited by professional and semi-professional football clubs; go on to higher education at home or abroad as well as pursuing careers in coaching, sports science, sports journalism or physiotherapy.
There were plenty of positive signs for North East Parkies United in their first official tournament since founding in September 2024.
Foundation of Light’s Game of II Halves conference attracted over 200 people to join a discussion on the men’s mental health epidemic.
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