Academy players given incredible experience in US Futures trip
Academy graduates take part in programme in Tampa for a unique football and educational experience
The US Tour was part of the “Futures” initiative between the Premier League, EFL and LFE which aims to transform the programmes, pathways and people available to support Academy Graduates to achieve success beyond their time in the Academy system.
In April this year, 25 academy players aged between 16 and 21 years old embarked on a life-changing 10-day work placement in Tampa Bay in the United States through the Futures programme.
The Tour was eligible to academy graduates who are either registered at a Premier League or English Football League (EFL) club or no longer attached to a professional club, and saw them play competitive matches against local NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) colleges, and USL (United Soccer League) championship and League 1 teams.
Additionally, the programme offered academy graduates the chance to learn more about the NCAA Student–Athlete pathway, seek opportunities to continue their playing career in the US through avenues such as the USL pyramid and explore potential careers in the US, both within and outside of sport.
Watch: Premier League Futures programme heads to the US
Participants had the chance to showcase their talents in training and match environments against high-level US teams and in the presence of scouts from MLS and USL teams and NCAA universities seeking players or student athletes for their programmes.
In addition to exposing participants to potential career opportunities and realistic pathways on and off the pitch, the programme aimed to equip them with the aptitude and skills to pursue employment and provided psychological support for those transitioning from the academy system.
Besides playing football matches, the graduates had training sessions at elite university campuses, took part in educational and cultural activities, engaged in volunteering and enjoyed experiences within Premier League partner environments, among other activities.
The Academy Graduates were treated to a variety of unforgettable experiences, including watching a Tampa Bay Rowdies USL game and an ice hockey match between Tampa Bay Lightning and Detroit Wings as well as undertaking a campus tour of Eckerd College in Florida.
“Definitely I’m starting to think that this might be a path for me to continue playing football and hopefully getting a professional deal out here,” said Noah, a Futures participant.
“I wanted a pro [deal] in America, that was my first goal,” said Lewis, another participant. “Since coming out here I’ve realised there are much broader options in the college and uni route. I’d say my horizons are a lot more expanded now.”
Under the Futures initiatives, the Premier League, EFL and LFE will aim to build upon the success of the US Futures tour and promote further opportunities to study and play in the US, as well as expand the education and career pathways for Academy Graduates with UK university and industry partners.
