‘There is no room for criticism on the training field. For a player — and for any human being — there is nothing better than hearing ‘well done’. Those are the two best words ever invented in sports.’
Sir Alex Ferguson
AC8 ACADEMY – EXPERT FOOTBALL COACHING FOR KIDS
‘There is no room for criticism on the training field. For a player — and for any human being — there is nothing better than hearing ‘well done’. Those are the two best words ever invented in sports.’
Sir Alex Ferguson
The AC8 Academy complements the coaching aspiring young footballers receive at grassroots clubs, bridging the gap between junior football clubs and professional academies.
We inspire, motivate and nurture young footballers of all abilities in a positive and professional environment. Our approach is personal. Nothing is ever too much trouble.
We work to small group sizes, allowing us to take the extra time to advise and develop players as individuals. Whether that be giving them the support they need to learn a new skill, boosting confidence in their own ability or simply giving them that all important high five! There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing the progress of our players.
Structured weekly coaching sessions are delivered by our expert coaches to the highest standards. Also, combined with a tailored monthly games programme, we ensure all players are constantly developing and progressing. Above all, we ensure all players enjoy playing football and their families love watching them!
We encourage young people to thrive and achieve their full potential. We pride ourselves on a child-centred approach. Furthermore, our UEFA and FA licensed Coaches are experts in their field. Many of our passionate and dedicated Coaches have been Professional Footballers themselves or are currently working in Professional Academy settings, offering an unrivalled wealth of experience and knowledge of the game they love.
Above all, developing confident, happy and well-rounded young players is at the heart of everything we do.
Communication is key to our approach. Our expert coaching team work with young people and their families to develop talent at a pace that’s right for individuals. All our coaches are DBS approved and first aid trained.
MEET THE TEAM
Qualifications: UEFA B licence, ATMIF (Advanced first aid), BSc First Class (Hons) Physiotherapy, and FA Safeguarding
Favourite Team: Huddersfield Town
Favourite Player: Paul Scholes
Qualities I look for in a player: Resilience, Enthusiasm, Willingness to take on feedback to develop, Team Player
Basic First aid for sport certificate
FA Safe Guarding certificate
Fav team: Middlesbrough and Man United
Fav Player - Paul Scholes
What I look for in a player: hard work and determination to succeed
Qualifications: FA safeguarding, FA first aid, FA level 2 coaching football, and BTEC level 3 diploma in sport performance and excellence.
Favourite Team: Leeds United
Favourite Player: Pablo Herndez
Qualities I look for in a player: determination and listening skills
Qualifications: FA level 2 coaching, FA Safeguarding, and First aid
Favourite Team: Manchester United
Favourite player: Robin Van Persie
Qualities I look for in a player: Player with a good attitude who wants to get better
Qualifications: UEFA B Licence, FA Youth Award, FA First Aid, FA Safeguarding, BSc (Hons) Applied Sports Science
Favourite Team: Middlesbrough FC
Favourite Player: David Beckham
Qualities I look for in a player: Hard working, good learning and listening skills, creativity.
Qualifications: Second Class Honours Degree (1st Division) in Sport & Exercise. FA Level 2 in Coaching Football (FA Safeguarding & First Aid). BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Sport Development, Coaching & Fitness.
Favourite Team: Middlesbrough
Favourite Player: Cristiano Ronaldo
Qualities I look for in a player: Desire, hardworking and having a willingness to learn/improve.
‘Young players need freedom of expression to develop as creative players….they should be encouraged to try skills without fear of failure. At a young age winning is not the most important thing.’
Arsene Wenger
Children are placed in the perfect session for them. Our coaching programme has three training strands, therefore creating perfect opportunities for beginner, intermediate and advanced level players. This enables players the opportunity to express themselves and train in an environment that is best suited to them.
BEGINNER
Our highly experienced coaches instantly put all players at ease. Beginner sessions use fun and exciting games to engage players. This introduces an understanding of the fundamental elements of the game. Developing basic ball control skills is also a key benefit of these sessions.
We constantly praise and encourage new players. Our dedicated coaches integrate the FA’s four corner player development model into all sessions. Focusing on technical and tactical development, building confidence and developing concentration skills. Additionally, developing physical and social benefits too.
Furthermore, players can meet new friends, feel part of a team and have fun as they learn and develop.
INTERMEDIATE
The Intermediate coaching strand focuses on structured sessions that enhance the coaching players receive at grassroots level. This further develops players individual skills. It also builds their knowledge of the game.
Sessions focus on developing ball mastery and confidence on the ball. This encourages players to think and play more creatively. Technical and tactical aspects of the game are explored in more detail. Players are encouraged to reflect on their own strengths and weaknesses both as individuals and as part of a team.
Small group sizes mean coaches can take the time to give individual feedback. Individual Development Plans (IDPs) track player progress at the end of each coaching block.
ADVANCED
Advanced development focuses on challenging and nurturing players who demonstrate real aptitude and potential. Players in the Elite strand have a strong understanding of the game and awareness of their own strengths and weaknesses. Furthermore, show a willingness to learn and develop. High intensity sessions focus on encouraging creativity and flair. They also build tactical awareness and resilience.
Small group sizes allow coaches time to give individual feedback during sessions. All players work to Individual Development Plans (IDPs) that track player progress at the end of each coaching block.
Players who show outstanding potential are progressed through advanced player development. This creates opportunities for talented young players to be regularly challenged and developed to the highest of levels.
Additionally, we offer tots coaching for young players.
We have an amazing community around what we do. Visit our Facebook page for more insights into our football academy.