Community Trust Launches Brand New "Junior Academy" for 2018/2019

Dundee United Community Trust is delighted to launch a brand new Junior Academy Programme which aims to work more closely with the Dundee United Youth Academy in giving players with high potential the chance to progress. The New “Academy” replaces the old J League and Young Tangerines sessions with a brand new curriculum as well as an aim to forge links with the local grassroots boys and girls clubs in the area.

Jamie Kirk, Head of Operations said: "The J League has been running for almost two decades and, while this once renowned programme has helped thousands of kids develop a love for football over the years, it's time for a change. The new Junior Academy will still be open to all but we have worked really hard to make sure there is a pathway for talented players to progress. The new Junior Academy has an exciting curriculum that the kids will really enjoy - it is all about developing a love of the game, making new friends and improving football skills. There will be some players who stay with us for a number of years because they just love playing football, some will move on to grassroots clubs, and some may even progress to the Dundee United Youth Academy structure. It's about the right level for every player and we are really excited about it."

Development squad keeper Josh Donaldson helped to launch the new Junior Academy this morning with boys and girls from Dens Road Primary School and added, "We all need somewhere to fall in love with football and it's great to see that the kids will also get the chance to progress into and through the youth academy like I did. It's about giving everyone a chance to be the best they can be."

More information on the new structure and curriculum will be available over the coming weeks and members of the current J League and Young Tangerines will be given priority to apply for a space in what we expect will be a programme in very high demand. If there are any questions in the meantime, though, please email enquiries@dundeeunitedct.co.uk.