It has been another busy summer for the Rovers Academy with all age groups taking part in a range of different tournaments.
Foundation phase news:
This group of players were invited to Queen Ethelburgas School to take part in a tournament which involved players from age groups 9, 10 and 11. The same age groups visited Birmingham City F.C. who this summer held various festivals.
Foundation groups have also had the luxury of taking on three different teams from the USA with groups from Arizona, New York and Florida all visiting the Keepmoat Stadium as part of their tours of the UK.
Head of Academy coaching Steve Welsh said: “These games were very competitive as our lads were often playing against players who were a year older.
“It has also opened the door on the possibility of some of our teams being offered the opportunity to reverse the fixtures by touring Arizona at some point in the future.”
Development phase news:
As part of pre-season preparations, the U13 and U14 age groups participated in the Sheffield Trophy which is in place to promote the well-being of young people through sporting competitions. The tournament celebrated its fifth year this summer and has seen teams from Europe, Asia and North America participate.
The U16s were given a fantastic opportunity to test themselves against one of the best academies in world football as they welcomed an U15s team from Manchester City.
Steve Welsh added: “The U16s, as a group, are giving themselves the best opportunity to get a place in the U18s side.
“We hope this sort of development continues as we look to begin the 19/20 season.”
The academy has also been fortunate to test themselves against a number of Category 2 clubs throughout pre-season at different age groups.
The Foundation and Development Phase teams begin their scheduled friendlies on Sunday as they continue to improve, develop, learn, and enjoy playing football for Rovers.