التصنيف: Uncategorized

We’re proud to confirm that the Vanguard Bursary will support 15 players this academic year — fully covering programme fees, kit and travel costs for families who would otherwise be unable to access elite-level youth coaching.

How it works

Applications are open to families across Greater Manchester. The bursary is means-tested and reviewed annually by our welfare team. Players still complete a standard trial — talent is the only sporting criterion.

Apply

Apply via the contact form — mention “Bursary” in your message and our welfare lead Marcus Ade will get back to you confidentially within 48 hours.

Eighteen of our Elite Pathway players spent the last week of August touring three La Liga youth academies — Sevilla, Real Betis and Granada CF. The trip is the centrepiece of our Elite calendar and the players didn’t disappoint.

Highlights

A hard-fought 2–2 draw with Real Betis U17, an unforgettable visit to Sevilla’s Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán stadium, and a 4–1 win against Granada’s development side. Connor Jameson scored the goal of the tour with a free-kick that nearly broke the net.

What we learned

Spanish youth football emphasises possession, patience, and positional discipline. Our players adapted quickly — and brought home ideas that will shape our autumn curriculum.

September is fast approaching and so are our autumn trial sessions. We have limited places opening across all squads — and they fill quickly.

What to expect

Your child will join a 90-minute session run by their potential coach. We focus on fundamentals (first touch, passing, decision-making) and small-sided games. Bring astro boots, a drink, and shin pads — we supply the rest.

How to book

Head to our contact page and fill in the trial enquiry form. We confirm within one business day. Sessions run every Thursday at 17:30.

After a four-week trial period, we’re thrilled to announce that Priya Okafor — former England Lionesses U17 goalkeeper — is joining the academy as our new full-time Goalkeeping Coach.

Priya brings a wealth of elite-level experience and a player-first approach that fits perfectly with the Vanguard philosophy. She’ll be leading our standalone Goalkeeping School every Tuesday and supporting GKs across all our squads.

In her own words

“I’ve seen first-hand how transformative quality coaching can be. I can’t wait to help the next generation of Vanguard keepers find their voice — between the sticks and beyond.” — Priya Okafor

Welcome to the family, Priya.

Friday’s clash against Salford Juniors was always going to be a tough one. Their U14s have a strong record this season and a forward line that has unsettled almost every defence in the division.

But our Development Squad rose to it. A first-half goal from Tyler Marsh — a smart turn and curling finish from the edge of the box — gave us the lead, and a tireless midfield performance from Mei Chen earned her the player-of-the-match award.

Coach’s view

“It was a complete team performance. Every player executed the game plan. That’s what we work towards every Tuesday and Thursday.” — Diego Marín, Technical Director

Next up: a home fixture against Trafford Rovers next Saturday at 11:00. All welcome.