Young people interested in a career in football can take along their kit to an event at Vauxhall Motors Sports and Social Club.

West Cheshire College’s successful Football Academy is hosting the session on Wednesday, February 17 at the Rivacre Road club.

The academy, which was established in 2013 and currently has 30 students, allows them to combine playing football while studying for a BTEC qualification in Sport.

With both the elite and development football teams currently battling it out for the top of their respective divisions, as well as forthcoming quarter-final matches for the Cheshire Cup and the Association of Colleges’ National Cup, the academy has enjoyed a huge amount of success.

How to turn a passion into a career

Jason Doggett, teacher and football academy coordinator, said: “Not only are our two football teams enjoying success both in their leagues and at cup level, but more importantly all of our students progress to university or gain USA scholarships once they complete their qualifications with us.

“For many young players who have enjoyed playing at Premier League Academy football level but perhaps haven’t progressed once they’ve turned 16, it can be a daunting prospect about what to do next.

“Or for many they simply love playing football and want to know how to turn that passion into a career.”

Curtis Thorpe, 18, from Ellesmere Port, who joined the academy in September 2015 and is working hard to break into Vauxhall Motors’ first team, said: “It’s an amazing set up here as I get to train three times a week and play matches but also gain a qualification at the same time.

“When I’ve finished my BTEC in sport level three, I am hoping to progress onto the foundation degree in fitness and health that the college offers and then eventually become a personal trainer.”

For the love of the game

Liam McVeigh, 17, also from Ellesmere Port, joined in September 2015. He added: “I’ve always loved playing football and have played football at a local level so it’s great that I continue to play as part of my course.”

The ‘Get To Know You’ event will run from 10.30am to 12.30pm at the sports and social club. It will consist of a presentation followed by a football game on the 3G pitch.

Those going along are asked to ensure they bring kit and suitable footwear. For more information or bookings, contact Mr Doggett at j.doggett@west-cheshire.ac.uk or 01244 656555.