Historic Derby saw North East unite for purpose beyond football
While the Black Cats faced the Magpies for the first time in eight years in league competition, the official charities of the North East rivals united behind a greater cause.
The Scholarship has helped me massively. From a year and a half ago I wasn’t the player I am now. The coaches do anything for you to make you a better footballer and constantly give you opportunities to get into clubs and achieve your dream.
Craig Ellison, Burnley FC forward and former Foundation ScholarLaunched in 2016, the programme has been a huge success with Monkwearmouth Scholars winning the NFYL U19 League and Trophy double while the Ladies Scholars lifted the inaugural NFYL Girls Cup at St George' Park in their first seasons. Off the pitch, Extended Diplomas in Sport and Physical Activity Development (equivalent to three A Levels) as well as FA awards in Football Coaching provides a platform for graduates to on to higher education at home or abroad as well as pursue careers in coaching, sports science, sports journalism or physiotherapy. Jamie Wright, Foundation of Light's Assistant Director, said: "The open evenings are a fantastic opportunity for players to come along and learn more about the programme, get to know our coaches and staff and find out if the Scholarship will suitable for them. "Working with our UEFA A and UEFA B qualified coaches and education specialists, players are supported with a first-class football coaching and education programme which mirrors the schedules of players at professional football academies."
While the Black Cats faced the Magpies for the first time in eight years in league competition, the official charities of the North East rivals united behind a greater cause.
Rees Greenwood sat down with Foundation of Light scholars as the former Sunderland AFC man took part in the second instalment of the ‘Changing Room Chat’ series.
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