Adelaide United’s community program starts in the week commencing the 18th April, and this year the club has extended the age groups for its Academy Program from 6 to 16yrs of age.
Adelaide United’s community program starts in the week commencing the 18th April, and this year the club has extended the age groups for its Academy Program from 6 to 16yrs of age.
The Reds are looking to improve on last year with Head Coach Rini Coolen set to attend a number of sessions to identify talent and give his input into the program. Current members of the Reds’ senior squad will also be taking some of the sessions throughout the 22 week IGA & Adelaide United Academy program.
The development and identification program will deliver a professional skill based program focusing on developing and improving technical ability. Players will be encouraged to reach their personal potential and stay committed to the game and club they love.
Last year, Adelaide United’s Elite Academy Program was for the 12-14 year old age group, as this period is seen as a very important age to work with, especially when it comes to wanting to develop young players technically. Furthermore, Football Federation Australia have introduced the Skillaroos program nationally, which will cover this age group.
Adelaide United’s Elite Academy Program is now for participants aged 15-17, allowing the club to work with talent that could potentially be selected for the Reds’ National Youth League squad. Together with coaches from local clubs and through the club’s other community programs, participants in that specific age group will be identified to participate in the Elite Academy.
“We are very excited to commence our IGA & Adelaide United Academy for 2011,” Academy Director Michael Valkanis said.
“The owners and Head Coach believe in the development of South Australian talent, and giving local boys and girls the opportunity to reach their potential in football, and have given their full support to the Academy.”
“The club has put plans and structures in place to fulfil the long term vision to have home grown talent in our Hyundai A-League squad in the future. This doesn-t happen overnight and will take long term commitment from everyone involved to make it a reality.”
Registrations for the IGA & Adelaide United Academy are still available. Click on the link below to download the registration form or contact the Adelaide United office on (08) 8340 3000 for further details.
Find out more about the Academy
Download the Academy Registration Form
