The Vale Academy recently took part in a tournament featuring teams from other EFL category 3 academies. This involved games in four different age groups, each at a separate location and the Vale youngsters competed strongly throughout.
The under 9s played at Accrington and did well by finishing 4th in their event. Further north at Fleetwood. the under 14s went one better by managing 3rd place.
At Walsall, the Vale under 11 team put in a fine showing and came away clear winners, a feat that was matched by our combined under 15/16 team which won their event at Shrewsbury.
Academy FDP Lead Coach and Head of Recruitment Lee Foyle was full of praise for the teams’ performances: “All age groups did really well and it was great for those who came back as winners," he said.
“We take part in these festivals three or four times a season and they provide a great opportunity for the lads to compete against a mix of other academy teams with different styles of play and formations in 20 minute games. “This helps improve tactical knowledge of a variety of situations, such as playing out a win or chasing an equaliser or a winner in the last few minutes of the game.”
“The extremely competitive nature of the events and the discipline required to perform in multiple games on a virtual back to back basis is also a great experience in building a positive team ethic.”
“Our success in these latest events demonstrates how well we can compete against other Academies at all age levels. “Our hardworking coaches who are all UEFA A or UEFA B qualified, provide the players with a fun, safe and friendly environment with the encouragement to learn and develop with the youth/first team in mind.”