Soccer academy starts at Ettalong

Southern and Ettalong United Football Club's has started a soccer academy on the Peninsula on May 31.

Club chairman Mr Jon Fleming said extensive trials for the academy commenced early last month.

"The Southern and Ettalong United Football Club's 2009 vision of starting its very own football academy became a reality on May 31," Mr Fleming said.

"Extensive trials were conducted early May, in which over 75 enthusiastic young soccer players gave it their all to earn the right to be part of this year's academy.

"In the end, 48 players from the under-8 to under-14 age groups were selected for the academy after open trials, with every player receiving an academy shirt and a soccer ball.

"The aim of the academy is to identify and develop football talent within Southern and Ettalong United Football Club and provide a pathway for all players to reach their football potential.

"The program runs for eight weeks with each week's program running for 90 minutes where different aspects of the game are addressed, including technical, tactical, physical and psychological development.

"Wet weather could not dampen the enthusiasm of our 2009 Junior Football Academy members as they kicked off day one of the program on May 31.

"The players gathered in the clubhouse for an introduction to their coaches and academy program and then, right on schedule, the sun came out and the group were able to find a few metres of firm ground for a 20 minute session with the ball."

The football academy coaching staff consists of head coach Dale Eggleton, supported by Bill Vrolyks, Jon Fleming, Glen Balneaves and Ben Stephenson.

Press release, 5 Jun 2009 Jon Fleming, Southern Ettalong United Football Club