Academy Season Review
As we approach the final few weeks of the Academy season it allows for some reflection on the past 9 months.
We began preseason way back in early July and were drawn away to Lewes FC in the early stages of the FA Youth Cup. This competition comes around so early for us so it can be difficult to instill our identity into the boys by early August. Despite a narrow 3-2 defeat, the performance was outstanding and we were very unlucky not to advance into the next round. This provided a sound platform to build and momentum was quickly gathered.
This 2023/24 season has seen the Academy & U19s compete in 7 competitions - FA Youth Cup, Floodlit Cup, Surrey Cup, Tandridge League Cup, SCL Cup, SCL League West Division & Tandridge Premier League. We are all very proud of the effort and commitment shown by all the boys across the season, with each and every member playing a critical part in its success.
Despite our early exit from the FA Youth Cup, we were able to have some very memorable runs in others, reaching the semi-final of the Surrey Cup - narrowly missing out 5-4 on penalties to Penn & Tylers.
Another semi-final appearance in the Floodlit Cup saw us well beaten by Chipstead 3-0 in a game where we didn't really show up - perhaps the occasion under the lights, away from home, was overwhelming for the young Terrors.
Yet another semi-final showing in the Tandridge League Cup saw us narrowly miss out again with a 3-2 home loss to a resilient Petts Wood side. In the Tandridge League, Petts Wood provided the strongest opposition over the course of the season - however the Terrors were able to secure the league title last Sunday at Petts Wood with 2 games to spare. The team are still currently unbeaten and they aim to finish as "invincibles" come the end of May!
In the SCL Development Cup and League, we remained competitive throughout the season - falling at the quarter-final stage to Edgware & Kingsbury and were unable to catch Sutton United at the top of the league. We wish all of our opponents the best of luck with their finals and congratulate all at Sutton United on winning the league.
There was definitely some frustration felt by all having reached 3 semi-finals and not being able to give ourselves a chance in a final - however time allows for reflection and reflection allows time for context.
Reaching that stage of those particular competitions is a significant achievement for us and a platform to build from next season. Limitless learning opportunities and references for these young men moving forward in their careers will no doubt stand them in good stead for what their futures present. The highs and lows, the elation and dejection, the laughter and the tears all combine to create character. A character who is resilient. Together. Humble. Disciplined and accountable.
Lastly, a huge thank you to all those involved in the Academy - Steve, Jackie & Emily for providing and facilitating a platform for these young men to perform on. Thank you to Luke, Daria and all the other staff members who have regular contact with the boys week in week out. Thank you as well to Jamie for his continued support and interest in the Academy. A massive thank you in particular goes to all the coaches, tutors and mentors that put in countless hours on a weekly basis to fulfil our Academy's philosophy on and off the pitch. Ashley, Tony, Kelly, Miguel & Warren - thank you.
This is far beyond football for us. This is purpose.
ed- Another clear sign of this commitment to this purpose is the go fund me campaign that Dan has set up to support T&M Academy prospect Dawid who needs a procedure to repair his ACL. If you can support in anyway please donate.
📸 Warren Andrews
