It has been a busy pre-season as we welcomed a new group of really exciting young of players into the Academy and I can’t wait to work with them over the next two years.
Our Squad One entered the new National Youth League South Division after gaining Academy status, something we are proud to receive as part of the new developments of the National League.
The boys will have some longer journeys this season, however, the improvement of opposition will only be good for the players as we continue to raise standards and focus on player development.
Squad Two will play in the National Youth Alliance Division B this season, of which our Squad One were crowned Champions in May. It’s going to be challenging, however competing against older players week in, week out will only aid their development.
We also have a Development Squad and they will compete in the Kent Schools Academies League, an excellent games programme.
Squad One made a brilliant start to the season, beating Weston-Super-Mare Academy 5-1 Crabble thanks to goals from Zack Jobe, Rolando Onu, Kumiranshe Bepe, George Nikaj and an own goal. It was a good performance to start the season and I was pleased to see we are already showing signgs of progression.
Some good attacking play caused Weston plenty of problems and I was pleased to see the lads are learning very quickly.
Squad Two lost 5-3 away to Worthing Academy and despite leading 3-2, the lads conceded three goals in the final 10 minutes. Congratulations to Charlie Meade on his hattrick in what was real spirited display overall and there are lots of positives to take into our next fixture.
Our Development squad started the season with a 3-0 victory away to Brompton School with Jackapo Pauli, Rabin Limbu and Reece Jobe with the goals. A fantastic start for the boys and hopefully they will continue to go from strength to strength.
The Dover Athletic Academy boys will also be present at first-team home matches, supporting the players, management and staff in a variety of roles.
Our Squad One will be next in action at Crabble 16th October against Aldershot Town Academy, with kick off currently scheduled for 1 pm, so please come along and lend your support.
Mike