A unique new football team that focusses solely on players' skills and confidence is launching in Harrogate.
The Harrogate International Academy is aimed at 12-13 year olds, offering an alternative to the traditional competitive league format.
Sessions are held every Wednesday evening at Rossett Sports Centre, led by experienced FA-qualified coach Andrew Clark.
Unlike other football clubs, The Harrogate International Academy's team does not compete against other teams.
Instead, the focus is on the development of players' skills, confidence, and team-building abilities.
The Academy offers a “supportive environment” where every player gets the opportunity to fully participate.
There are no substitutions; every child plays for the duration of the match, ensuring that no one is left on the sidelines.
The HIA Academy Principal said:
"We've heard from parents whose children have been excluded from other teams because they weren't considered good enough.
“At The Harrogate International Academy, we believe that every child deserves a chance to develop and grow, regardless of their current skill level."
The football sessions are designed to help players build their confidence, sharpen their skills, and work as part of a team.
Following each session, players receive individual feedback to help them improve.
This supportive, inclusive environment ensures that players of all abilities can enjoy football without the pressure of being dropped from the team for not performing.
The Academy is looking to expand the programme and plans to introduce more teams for various age groups, both for boys and girls.
The goal is to provide a football experience that accommodates players who want to enjoy the sport without the weekend commitments and the stress of being sidelined if they don’t meet performance expectations.
Parents and guardians interested in enrolling their children or learning more about the programme can contact The Harrogate International Academy at info@the-hia.com or visit the website at www.the-hia.co.uk/football
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