FECKENHAM are to introduce an under 18s Development team in the Midland Floodlit Youth League ahead of the 2017/18 season.
Spearheaded by first team manager Aaron Blackwood since his arrival in 2015, the shake-up and restructuring at the club in recent years has seen the Millers make great strides in providing a clear platform and vision so that young, talented, local players can develop in a progressive and competitive environment.
Last season’s reintroduction of the Reserves, who compete in the Stratford Alliance, was an important step within this process and, following a review of the club’s current structure, it was decided the launch of an under 18s Development squad in the acclaimed Midland Floodlit Youth League was the next step.
The new U18s will be managed by former Studley U18s and Highgate United U18s joint manager Rob Donnelly, who has vast experience in junior/foundation football across a number of age groups and recently spent three seasons alongside Blackwood at Studley.
The pair went on to win the 2015/16 Midland Floodlit Western Division title before the duo took up positions at Highgate United U18s, but most importantly they oversaw a number of local youngsters’ development, who have gone on to play at various clubs across Step 4, 5, 6 and 7 of the National League pyramid.
Donnelly will be assisted by Tony Round, who is highly thought of at the club and needs little introduction having recently returned for his second stint at Feckenham as joint assistant manager of the first team alongside Tom Davies.
The Millers’ youngsters will find out which division they are in at the Midland Floodlit Youth League AGM on Monday, June 26. There is the prospect of lining up against established youth set-ups including Redditch United, Leamington, Alvechurch, Kidderminster Harriers, Hereford, Gloucester City and Cheltenham Town.
The Millers U18s have a fantastic network of young players at their disposal and will not be holding open trials, but anyone interested is more than welcome to contact Tony Round on 07487 744028.
