Stevenage Football Club’s Elite Development Programme moves to Hertfordshire FA facility for the delivery of its football provision

The relocation is in conjunction with an extended deal that sees Virtual Learning UK (VLUK) remain as the education provider for its student athletes.

This move will see Stevenage FC Academy join with Hertfordshire FA to provide excellent football provision at the Community Football Centre in Letchworth. The EDP will train daily using the artificial surface at The County Ground, whilst VLUK will gain access to the interactive classrooms whilst studying BTEC Levels 2 and 3 in Sport.

Stevenage FC Academy Manager Jorden Gibson said:

“We are delighted to be able to take our Elite Development Programme to the excellent facilities at the Hertfordshire FA’s Community Football Centre (CFC). Over the last few seasons, we have been working tirelessly to ensure we improve our provision for our 16- to 19-year-olds, and we want to create a unique learning experience for those who, not only aspire to be footballers, but also work in other elements in the sporting industries.

We believe that having strengthened our coaching team and continuing our relationship with VLUK, this move will enable us to provide a fantastic learning experience for all that attend. We are thankful to the Hertfordshire FA who have welcomed us and are excited for what the future holds”.

Lead Coach of the Elite Development Programme Tom Malins said:

“We have always strived to offer the best facilities in the area for our EDP. Now, the Community Football Centre at The County Ground provides an environment for our student-athletes to thrive as individuals and as a group.

Students will have the highest standard of educational facilities, offering several classrooms to cater for our needs on top of a playing field that is second to none in the county. We are thankful for the Hertfordshire FA for accepting us and have been fantastic in their support to both staff and students. We look forward to building a positive relationship here at The County Ground.”

Rob Smith, Deputy CEO of Hertfordshire FA said:

“We are delighted to welcome Stevenage FC Academy and provide them with a high-quality facility that will support their college and education programme. The facility provides the Club with theory-based education environment and pitch-based training and matches which we hope further the career prospects for the students.

Hertfordshire FA and Stevenage FC have a key partnership and work closely together supporting, promoting and developing football and this programme enhances that even further."

For more information on the Elite Development Programme, please contact EDP Lead Coach Tom Malins at tomm@stevenagefc.com.

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