Harrogate Town have been awarded a license to run an academy, allowing 16-18 year olds to train full time with the club.

The club recently underwent an audit by the PGAAC, and have confirmed they have been awarded a license to run a Category 4 Academy.

Based at West Riding FA along with the current first team, the Academy will compete in the EFL Youth Alliance North East, allowing regular competitive fixtures and a clear pathway and progression through the ranks.

Harrogate Town Manager Simon Weaver said:

“This is a massive step in the right direction for the club in terms of fulfilling the vision of where we started and what we foresee being our future.”

The Academy will be headed up by Paul Stansfield, and supported by PDP Coach Ross McKay, while Phil Priestley will act as Goalkeeper Coach and Josh Walsh Academy Secretary. Lee Barraclough takes the role of Head of Recruitment.

The club’s U19’s, U17’s and U19 Alliance teams will continue to run and compete in their respective leagues, alongside the newly established Academy.

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