The West Ham United Foundation is delighted to announce the relaunch of the Second Chance Academy in partnership with the West Ham United Academy.
With trials due to be held in May, the West Ham United Foundation Second Chance Academy is a free full-time football and education programme aimed at developing young players, aged 16 to 18, who may have been released from Category One and Two Academies or might not have had access to them growing up.
“We want to encourage young people to follow their dreams and never feel that anything is unachievable,” said West Ham United Academy Manager Kenny Brown. “This programme gives every player an opportunity to do just that, developing both on and off the pitch in a safe and professional environment, while having selfless staff there to support them on their journey.
“No two footballers have the same journey or pathway, and this programme gives young players another opportunity to create a career in professional football.”
Opportunity
The scheme presents an all-encompassing opportunity for young players to hone their skills and pursue their dreams. Alongside a rigorous training schedule, which includes twice-weekly training sessions at a West Ham United Academy venue and fixtures on Wednesdays, players will also have access to full-time education.
Furthermore, the programme also offers participants the chance to earn their Level One coaching badges, empowering them with valuable qualifications and expanding their horizons beyond the pitch.
By offering a comprehensive blend of elite training, dedicated education, and valuable coaching qualifications, the scheme embodies a holistic approach to player development, encompassing both the physical and educational aspects of their growth.
“We’ve been working really hard with the Academy to get this programme up and running again,” said Foundation Director of Programmes Bryan Glover. “Essentially, our job is to get these young talented players to as good a standard as possible and potentially progress them along the Academy pathway.
“Throughout the programme, our dedicated Foundation and Academy staff will provide guidance and support, closely observing the players to assess their potential for progression to Academy level.
“We believe that every young player deserves a chance to develop their skills and reach their full potential, regardless of their previous opportunities or setbacks.”
The Second Chance Academy makes a triumphant return after a temporary hiatus due to the pandemic. Three years after the programme was put on hold, it is being relaunched with renewed vigour. In the previous iteration of the programme, numerous players seized the opportunity for a ‘second chance’ and went on to achieve success.
Commenting on the relaunch of the Second Chance Academy, recently appointed West Ham United Academy Manager Brown confirmed he would have a proactive role in overseeing the programme and monitoring the progress of the players.
“The idea to re-launch the program has been in the pipeline for some time and with myself coming in as permanent Academy Manager in February, we believe now is the ideal time to action our plans,” he added. “We have agreed for the Second Chance Academy to train at our site at Little Heath during the week.
“It is important that the players see and feel a connection with the Academy and this set-up proved to be successful in the past.
“We have excellent staff overseeing the programme, and I will be taking a keen interest in developments and will be present throughout with the staff and players.”
For updates on trial information, dates and venues, stay tuned to the West Ham United Foundation social media channels
If you are aged between 16-18 and interested in the chance to be part of the Second Chance Academy, please email WHU Foundation Senior Programme Manager Sam Taylor at [email protected] for more information.
