Category: News

Please click here for the application link.

With the Easter break nearly upon us, we have been asked by Jamel Wojtczak who is a head coach at Bromley, if any team / club would be interested in assisting with helping to provide training/matches whilst they are here on tour.

All costs will be covered by IFAAA for pitches and staff, and given we have no games scheduled for Sunday 31^st March – there are opportunities here :

Tuesday 2^nd April – U15s and U16s looking for a game – anytime afternoon or early evening.

Saturday 6^th April – Academy training session 9am – Under 12s, Under 13s, Under 15s and Under 16s – all 4 teams 1 pitch corner each.

They would also be available next Saturday 30^th March for a session as well.

All enquiries and offers to help should be directed to Jamel on 07882057643

We’re thrilled to be parnering with London City Lionesses to offer tickets for their Adobe Women’s FA Cup clash versus Billericay Town. To request free tickets for your team, click the link below

https://bit.ly/TicketsForTeams

From Friday 1 December, the Kent Youth League will run an Advent Calendar across our Twitter and Instagram pages.

Each day, a festive window will open to reveal a randomly selected player from our League. This player will receive a £10 Newitts Online Voucher to spend on their website. 

This is just a little token from us to engage with players and do something nice to do throughout December.

So, make sure you’re following the KYL on Twitter and Instagram to keep an eye on the #KYLChristmas hashtag!

Gillingham FC are looking for Under 13s teams from the Kent Youth League to be ball boys for matches at Priestfield Stadium this season on the below dates:

Saturday 12^th August versus Accrington Stanley – Hastings FC

Tuesday 26^th December versus Crawley – AVAILABLE

Friday 29^th December versus Sutton United– AVAILABLE

Saturday 6^th January versus Stockport– Herne Bay

Saturday 20^th January versus V Forest Green Rovers

Saturday 3^rd February versus Walsall– AVAILABLE

Tuesday 13^th February versus Swindon Town– AVAILABLE

Saturday 24^th February versus Wrexham – Ebbsfleet United

If you’d like to apply for your team to be ball boys for The Gills please email charlotte.richardson@kentyouthleague.co.uk

EMC Academy are still looking for players to add to their U19 Scholarship Programme based in Tunbridge Wells.

The programme is the only full time football and educational academy in Tunbridge Wells. Open to current year 11,12 & 13 students the programme offers a pathway into playing, coaching or refereeing football on a full time basis.

The EMC staff that run the programme on a day to day basis include:

Jonny Elwood- UEFA A coach
Henry Muggeridge – Former professional footballer, and current England 6 a side manager
Full time physio
Performance analyst

Benefits of the course include:

Full time football alongside Btec sport/A level qualifications
Playertek vests
All fixtures recorded with data/clips sent to players after games
Pathways into professional football
Pathways into semi professional football
FA Youth Cup
Kent Youth League Football
SCL League football
Tactic League football
Fixtures against professional clubs
Daily training including double sessions

End of season trip to Spain

The course itself is completely free of charge.

For more information or to request a FREE playing trial please contact Academy Manager Jonny Elwood on 07894823459.

ONE FULLY COMPLETED APPLICATION FORM PER TEAM REQUIRED

APPLICATION FORMS MUST BE SUBMITTED NO LATER THAN 10:00AM 1ST MAY 2023

ALL CLUBS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THEIR FA FOOTBALL ACCREDITATION AT AN APPROVED STATUS, NO EXCEPTIONS WILL BE MADE

THE LEAGUE WILL NOT ACCEPT ‘TBA’ FOR ANY PART OF THIS APPLICATION

FORMS MUST BE COMPLETED IN FULL OR WILL BE REJECTED

Please click here for the application link.

Gillingham FC are looking for Under 13s teams from the Kent Youth League to be ball boys for matches at Priestfield Stadium this season on the below dates:

All slots have now been taken.

We hope our teams enjoy wonderful days out at the club.

“Development & fulfilment is in our DNA”

Football Coaching Academy London are proud to deliver our full-time 16-19 football and education programme in partnership with Merstham Football Club and Palace For Life Foundation.

We have over 10 years’ experience of providing first-class education alongside a full-time training and games programme, which in combination enables learners to be the best they can be on and off the pitch.

• Our football programme is led by professional coaches with years of experience in semi-professional football and in coaching at elite development environments

• We train three times a week on the 4G AstroTurf pitch at Kent County Cricket Club, Beckenham

• Players have access to video analysis through our partnership with Veo

• Weekly access to onsite gym at our training campus

• Play in the FA Youth Cup, as well as the National Youth Alliance (highest youth level outside of Pro academy football)

• Potential to progress into first-team football through our partnership with Merstham Football Club, and contacts with various semi-professional clubs at a variety of levels

• Study NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Physical Activity, worth up to 3 full A-Levels, providing direct access into university

• Opportunity to pursue scholarships in the USA through Pass4Soccer

From Thursday 1 December, the Kent Youth League will run an Advent Calendar across our Twitter and Instagram pages.

Each day, a festive window will open to reveal a randomly selected player from our League. This player will receive a £10 Newitts Online Voucher to spend on their website. 

This is just a little token from us to engage with players and do something nice to do throughout December, especially when we’re all missing our football so much.

So, make sure you’re following the KYL on Twitter and keep an eye on the #KYLChristmas hashtag!

Please report any incidents of discrimination at the Kent Youth League by emailing info@kentyouthleague.co.uk with the below information:

Name

When did the incident take place

*Where did the incident take place?

*What is your email address?

Please tell us what happened? *

As we approach the business end of the Season, we are now officially OPEN for the new 2022-2023 Season.  

Please click here for the Application Form.

one form to be completed for each team entered, as per last year’s process.  Also attached is the annual Club Agreement, only one Agreement for each Club to be returned signed once you have submitted the Application forms.  

No fees are due at this stage.

All venues must offer changing room facilities and teams are to provide post-match hospitality for the new Season now we are expected to live with COVID this League rule will be in place and adhered to.

Be Part of our successful Football Scholarship Programme from September 2022 and join our successful

Our 1st trial will be on WEDNESDAY 6th APRIL AND TUESDAY 12th APRIL, at Hugh Christie School, White Cottage Road, TN10 4PU, from 1:30-3pm

At Tonbridge Angels football academy you have the opportunity to study a range of A Levels &/or BTEC courses whilst training daily and competing every Wednesday in the National u19 youth league or Kent Academies league. We have a genuine realistic academic and footballing pathway for all aspiring footballers. The course is run by UEFA A Licenced coaches

This season our successes are:

 20 different academy players training with the 1st team. Regularly 3/4 players per week training

 4 1st team debuts

 6 players out playing 1st team football in Ryman South/SCEFL

 2 girls in the academy playing matches and progressing with their football

 GPS vests for matches

 Games Recorded

 You can apply by https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fform.jotformeu.com%2F92911723517357&amp;data=04%7C01%7C%7C3f52d09bef5c4146f6e808da0ccfeb27%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637836384395318093%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=GAuHyk%2BK%2BfOMDqz425D6TQ%2Bfy0CfuUsK6wenPjJEOok%3D&amp;reserved=0 <https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fscanmail.trustwave.com%2F%3Fc%3D8720%26d%3DlOq04n-qVObHb3kXzh7b0cT3pRJ83hHhNSY54_9RBg%26u%3Dhttps%253a%252f%252fform.jotformeu.com%252f92911723517357&amp;data=04%7C01%7C%7C3f52d09bef5c4146f6e808da0ccfeb27%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C637836384395318093%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=A%2FZ3Uce19p1v48Hzv5%2Bej63i%2F8OdxsBTcoLUKYSSX8g%3D&amp;reserved=0> or by emailing tafcacademy@outlook.com<mailto:tafcacademy@outlook.com> to sign up and find out more

Twitter: @tafcacademy
Instagram: @tafcacademy

It’s that time of year when we really get down to business, our Kent Youth League finals are coming up. Each final will be recorded and put on our YouTube channel, photos will also be available from each game, here on our website.

Please see further details about all the finals below:

• Thursday 10th March | U13s @ Maidstone United 7:45pm kick-off  MAIDSTONE V PARKWOOD
• Thursday 17th March | U14s @ Glebe FC 7:30pm kick-off CRAY VALLEY V LEWISHAM
• Thursday 24th March | U16s @ Sheppey United 7:45pm kick-off  EASTBOURNE V GLEBE
• Thursday 28th April | U15s @ Chatham Town 7:45pm kick-off BROMLEY V EBBSFLEET
• Thursday 5th May | U18s @ Chatham Town 7:45pm kick-off SEVENOAKS V MARGATE

Tickets for these finals will be 5.00 Adults, £1 children, under 18s and seniors. Each club has been gifted a set of complimentary tickets to distribute accordingly.

We are delighted to announce our February “CAT of the Month”.

The winners have been selected based on the number of goals conceded over the month. Don’t forget to nominate your goalkeepers of choice by emailing info@cat-gk.co.uk.

Congratulations to:

U13s Orpington 

U14s Rochester 

U15s Cray Wanderers 

U16s Whyteleaf

U18s Phoenix

The guys will contact each winner to arrange presentation of the gloves.

To find out more about CAT-GK visit their website by clicking here. Or like on Facebook, follow on Instagram and Twitter.

We are delighted to announce our January “CAT of the Month”.

The winners have been selected based on the number of goals conceded over the month. Don’t forget to nominate your goalkeepers of choice by emailing info@cat-gk.co.uk.

Congratulations to:

U13 Tonbridge Angels

U14 Sheppey Utd 

U15 Ebbsfleet

U16 Ashford

U18 Sutton Athletic 

The guys will contact each winner to arrange presentation of the gloves.

To find out more about CAT-GK visit their website by clicking here. Or like on Facebook, follow on Instagram and Twitter.

Erith Town Football Club are offering BTEC and Personal Training courses to children age 16 to 19.  Here at Erith Town we offer a clear pathway from youth to senior football.  In just our second year, we are sitting 2^nd in the National Youth Alliance League, top of the U23s league and reached the 1^st round proper of the FA Youth Cup playing against Portsmouth FC, beating some huge names along the way. 
 

On this programme players can expect coaching from UEFA qualified coaches, strength and conditioning sessions, weekly fixtures and player analysis.  Off the pitch we can offer the boys a BTEC/NCFE qualification, personal training courses and work experience within sport and primary schools. 

In the short space of time we have been active, we are on course to have over 42 graduates completing their BTEC qualification, the equivalent to three A levels.  We pride ourselves on the fact we take two teams per year and two only, making our course much more closely acquainted for the boys, giving them increased chances of game time and success. 

Our U23s side is currently made up of our 2^nd year scholars as our first team manager is huge on youth and bringing the boys through to the first team.  In just 18 months over 7 boys have featured for the 1^st team, with two becoming regular starters.   

WHAT TO EXPECT 

• Up to 10 hours of UEFA COACHING PER WEEK 
• Weekly fixtures in the National Youth Alliance League 
• FA Youth Cup opportunities  
• Full training and match day kit set including protein shaker, foam roller and player data trackers 
• BTEC within sport Equivalent to three A levels (enough to go to UK or US university), work experience opportunities 
• Personal trainer qualification  
• U23s and First Team opportunities 

To register your interest now please call 07904121075 or email erithtownpost16@hotmail.com  

We are delighted to announce our November “CAT of the Month”.

The winners have been selected based on the number of goals conceded over the month. Don’t forget to nominate your goalkeepers of choice by emailing info@cat-gk.co.uk.

Congratulations to:

U13: Margate FC

U14: Maidstone United FC

U15: Bromley FC

U16: Chatham Town FC

U18:Whitstable Town FC

The guys will contact each winner to arrange presentation of the gloves.

To find out more about CAT-GK visit their website by clicking here. Or like on Facebook, follow on Instagram and Twitter.

We are delighted to announce our November “CAT of the Month”.

The winners have been selected. Congratulations to:

U13 Faversham Town

U14 Maidstone

U15 Deal Town

U16 Ebbsfleet

U18 Margate

The guys will contact each winner to arrange presentation of the gloves.

To find out more about CAT-GK visit their website by clicking here. Or like on Facebook, follow on Instagram and Twitter.

We are delighted to announce our October “CAT of the Month”.

The winners have been selected. Congratulations to:

• U13s, Woodnesborough – Great league position and hardly any goals conceded
• U14s Ellis Emerson, Herne Bay U14’s – We were given a glowing recommendation from Peter Whittaker the manager.
• U15s Enzo Di Cesare, Erith & Belvedere – We were sent some amazing videos of saves and were extremely impressed.
• U16s Toby Waller, Kent Football United- We were blown away with the email received from referee Roger Wells. Roger described Toby’s performance in a narrow 2-1 loss to Whyteleafe as the best youth goalkeeping display he has seen. Given the amount of games Roger has been involved in that’s some compliment
• U18’s Sutton Athletic – Great start to the season and the least goals conceded

The guys will contact each winner to arrange presentation of the gloves.

To find out more about CAT-GK visit their website by clicking here. Or like on Facebook, follow on Instagram and Twitter.

Dover Athletic are hosting an Open Evening for anyone who would like to join the Academy in partnership with The Abbey School Sixth Form. It will take place on Wednesday 24 November from 5-7pm at the Abbey School, Faversham. Find out more about the Academy by watching their video here.

Please click below to fill in the Dover Academy Trial Letter and return to msandmann@abbeyschoolfaversham.co.uk.

Margate FC is hosting a Post 16 Football Academy Open Evening on Wednesday 24th November from 5:30-7:30pm.

The Open Evening takes place at Herne Bay High providing players and parents the opportunity to receive information on the academy and take a look around the school itself.

As part of our partnership with Herne Bay High, players are given the best of both world with academic options alongside full-time football.

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport

Within the academy you can study a full time BTEC Level 3 programme over two years, equivalent to A Levels, opening the door to university. This allows you focus purely on sport science related topics such as Psychology of Sport, Sociology, Anatomy and Physiology, Coaching, Nutrition, Fitness Training and Sports Business.

A Levels

You can select any A Levels you like from the courses available in the selected blocks (if you select A Levels and want to be part of the football academy, you must indicate this on your application). We have a large selection of courses, far more than most other sixth forms. A levels such as Business, English or Science are available, for full details on the wide selection of A Level courses please visit the Herne Bay High School website.

Vocational Courses

You can study Level 2 and 3 fitness/health-based courses, preparing you for employment. We offer the VTCT Level 2 Diploma in Exercise, Health and Fitness Studies, and at Level 3, Personal Training. Part of the Level 2 diploma is the gym instructor certificate. This route is all about giving you the skills and knowledge to enter the fitness industry. 

Our players have gone on to pursue different careers and options following their time at the Academy. Find out more about recent co-hort of graduates by clicking here.

Please email footballacademy@hernebayhigh.orgfor further information.

EUFC Academy oversees the management and day to day running of all junior teams (U7 – U16s) associated with Ebbsfleet United FC and the academy programme. offers an extension to this traditional youth football, by offering players aged 16 – 19 with the opportunity to continue their footballing journey in supporting their dreams and aspirations of building a career within the game.

Our academy is designed to aid and support those players wishing to continuing pursuing a career within the game, with programme designed to offer support and guidance in helping to achieve those aspirations through structure training and developmental sessions to help understand the demands and requirements as they progress into adult football.

All players offered opportunity to join our Academy do so, knowing that the programme they will sign up to has been specifically designed to incorporate a football and educational element that is paramount to aid their development.

WHAT TO EXPECT…
Players receive everything you would expect as a modern-day professional footballer:

• Training and games on state-of-the-art playing surfaces – New Training Ground Under Construction
• Compete in U19 Youth Alliance League, Tactics League, Kent Intermediate Cup (U23)
• FA Youth Cup and Showcase Games
• Training Games verse First Team throughout the season
• Opportunities to be invited to train, play with First Team and/or go out on loan to gain first team experience.
• Coaching by fully qualified and experienced UEFA qualified coaches with a vast experience having worked across all levels of the game.
• A fully comprehensive timetable that incorporates both Football and Education which has been designed around their training and games programme.
• Access to Sports Therapist & Physio
• Video Analysis via Veo Camera
• GPS data with access Catapult software

VENUES…
Academy is currently delivered daily from The Steve Cook Stadium (Home of Punjab United FC) Elite Venue, Dunkirk Close, Gravesend, Kent DA12 5ND

Soon to relocate to Kedbull Leisure in Nelson Road Gravesend – images attached of planned redevelopment for 2022

Both locations have good public transport links from London and Kent:

• Gravesend Train Station
• Ebbsfleet International Station
• Gravesend Ferry
• Arriva Bus Service – 483 Stops Directly Outside Venue

COST…
Joining the Academy is FREE, the only costs associated to students include:

• Daily travel to & from Academy
• Academy Training & Matchday Kit
• Educational Resources – General Stationary (Pen & Writing Pad)

All students will be given opportunity to apply for a bursary towards these costs and will be advised to apply once they have successfully enrolled.

COURSE OPTIONS…

Students sign up to a full-time academic programme with course options linked to their GCSE results or alternative academic studies with them being able to enrol onto one of the following courses:

• BTEC Level 2 First Certificate in Sport
• BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Sport in Sports Coaching Development (Equivalent of 1.5 A Levels)
• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport in Sports Coaching Development (Equivalent of 1.5 A Levels)
• NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Gym Instructing & Personal Training (Third Year Course)
• GCSE & Functional Skills in Maths and English

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS…

• Minimum of 3 GCSEs Grade A-C or 4 and above in Maths and English

• A minimum of two ID documents to prove eligibility to be educated in England
• EU Students – an in-date passport, birth certificate or national insurance number.
• Non-EU students – must provide visa documents that state your residency details along with a national insurance number.

POTENTIAL PATHWAYS/EXIT ROUTES… 
There are many potential pathways open to graduates on completion of their academic journey, which may include but not limited to:

• Scholarship at a Professional Football Clubs
• Contract offer at a Professional Football Club, Non- League or Club with the Football Pyramid
• Opportunities to attend University and/or Football Scholarship within America
• Football Coaching or Career within Leisure Industry.

NEXT STEPS/REGISRTATION…

If you feel that EUFC Academy is the place that you would like to continue developing both as a player and academically, then to secure your place at one of our talent identification days please complete the online registration form.

Once you have registered, all you will need to do is attend, where you will be met by members of EUFC Academy who will arrange for you to complete an initial academic assessment, then take part in a training and/or games session that will allow us opportunity to gain a greater understanding of you both on the pitch and within the classroom.

All players who wish to attend will be required to attend with correct kit to take part in a training session including boots and shin pads with plenty of fluids – changing facilities and showers will be accessible to use after training.

You can APPLY NOW for 2022/23 entry by clicking here.

TALENT IDENTIFCATION DATES…

• Tuesday 26^th October 2021 – 10.00am – 12.00pm
• Saturday 18^th December 2021 – 10.00am – 12.00pm
• Talent Identification Days will be held at The Steve Cook Stadium, Elite Venue, Dunkirk Close, Gravesend DA12 5ND.

This season, the Kent Youth League was delighted to welcome CAT-GK as a new sponsor for the 2021/22 season.

CAT-GK, run by former Kent Youth League players Charlie Himbury and Adam Molloy, provide top-quality goalkeeping gloves. The pair and their company are supporting the League with a new competition to reward goalkeepers.

Each month teams are invited to submit nominations for a goalkeeper to be recognised for their individual performances. At the end of each month CAT-GK will pick a winner from each age group and reward them with a pair of gloves. If no entries are submitted, the goalkeeper who has conceded the least amount of goals will win “CAT of the Month”.

September’s winners have been selected. Congratulations to:

U13 – Metrogas FC

U14 – Margate FC

U15 – Maidstone United

U16 – Glebe FC

U18 – Dover Athletic

The guys will contact each winner to arrange presentation of the gloves.

A special mention out to Ryan Canty the Metrogas U13s Manager who submitted a glowing review of his CAT, Louis Hall. Don’t forget to email info@cat-gk.co.uk with nominations each month, as this will have a big say on the winners!

To find out more about CAT-GK visit their website by clicking here. Or like on Facebook, follow on Instagram and Twitter.

This season, the Kent Youth League was delighted to welcome CAT-GK as a new sponsor for the 2021/22 season.

CAT-GK, run by former Kent Youth League players Charlie Himbury and Adam Molloy, provide top-quality goalkeeping gloves. The pair and their company are supporting the League with a new competition to reward goalkeepers.

It’s often felt goalkeepers are somewhat forgotten about, with Golden Boot and Goal of the Month competitions common practice, their is less to recognise the efforts of those between the sticks. Well, this season KYL and CAT-GK are putting that right.

Each month teams are invited to submit nominations for a goalkeeper to be recognised for their individual performances. At the end of each month CAT-GK will pick a winner from each age group and reward them with a pair of gloves. If no entries are submitted, the goalkeeper who has conceded the least amount of goals will win “CAT of the Month”.

To submit nominations, clubs should email the following details to info@cat-gk.co.uk

• Name
• Club
• Age Group
• Nomination (Maximum 250 words)

The guys will select their winner and contact them to arrange presentation of the gloves. Winners will also be announced on social media too.

To find out more about CAT-GK visit their website by clicking here. Or like on Facebook, follow on Instagram and Twitter.

The Kent FA Youth Council are the voice of young people across our county. They are passionate about building for the future and evolving our game to ensure it is a safe, enjoyable and inclusive place for all.

To be eligible for the Kent FA Youth Council, you must:

• Be between 11 and 21 on 1 September 2021
• Live in Kent for the duration of the 2021/22 season
• Be involved in Kent football in some capacity (player, referee, coach, volunteer, etc.)
• Be passionate about improving Kent Football alongside the County FA
• Attend all 4 meetings per season (weekdays, 2 hours long, normally at Kent FA HQ in Maidstone)

Becoming a member of the Kent FA Youth Council is a fantastic opportunity for those interested in leadership and football. The group has won four national awards since its creation in 2012 and many Ambassadors have gone on to secure excellent jobs both in the football industry and elsewhere.

Ambassadors will need to be committed to making a difference in the game and have some knowledge and experience in grassroots football. They will also need to be able to work as a member of the team, have good communication skills and the ability to manage and administrate your own activities.

Luke Baker, Football Development Officer for Youth Football and Staff Lead for the Youth Council, said: “This season the group will be celebrating our 10th anniversary making us one of the most developed groups in the country. Having come from the Youth Council myself, I would encourage any young person in Kent Football to apply to this award-winning group to develop themselves and our footballing community.”

The deadline for applications is 9am on Monday 16 August. 

For further details or to discuss the Kent FA Youth Council please contact Luke Baker (Football Development Officer) on 01622 792 140 or at Luke.Baker@KentFA.com or click here for a full role profile. 

Please note this position is not a coaching role.

The Kent County FA is committed to achieving equality and fairness in employment and service delivery. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.

We are counting down the days until the 2021/22 season begins. We cannot wait to bring players, coaches, volunteers and parents back together to enjoy taking part in the Kent Youth League.

Ahead of the new season and following the success of our first episode of #KYLQuestions, CEO Ken Brooke will be taking questions from anyone who wishes to submit any queries ahead of the upcoming campaign. In the session, Ken will address many things and the video will then go live on our YouTube channel. Subscribe by clicking here.

If you’d like to submit a question please email office@kentyouthleague.co.uk by Wednesday 18th August. We will attempt to get through as many questions as possible.

The Kent Youth League are proud to be an England Football Accredited League.

Setting the standard for football across the country and flying the flag of respect and diversity, becoming an England Accredited League means the KYL is meeting the highest standards set by English football’s governing body.

For more information, please watch the below video and read the article

EMC Academy are looking for a handful of players to add to their 2021/22 Scholarship programme.

The programme based in Rusthall, Tunbridge Wells boasts former professional footballers, as well as UEFA A licence coaches on its staff.

The football and educational programme offers local players an alternative to traditional sixth form and college routes, with potential pathways into Universities (both in the UK and USA) as well as PT qualifications, coaching apprenticeships and full time work.

Players will complete a B-TEC Sport level 3 diploma, whilst training full time and competing in a professional league.

In the last 5 seasons the programme has overseen many players development into the semi professional game and 1 player into the professional game.

Benefits of the programme include:

-Brand new venue in Rusthall
-Daily training
-Weights programme
-Nutritional programme
-24/7 support
-Video analysis on all fixtures
-PLAYRTEK vests for every player
-Fixtures vs professional clubs
-Compete in national league and cup
-UEFA Standard coaching
-Pathways to various professional and semi-professional clubs
-Mid season tour to Marbella
-Links to USA
-Goalkeeper coaching
-121 sessions
-First class facilities

Players wishing to trial will now be invited to our pre season, which kicks off at the start of August. To request a trial please contact Academy manager Jonny Elwood on 07894823459.

For more information please visit our website:

EMC Academy – UK Football Scholarships | Post 16 Soccer Scholarships based in Kent (emc-academy.co.uk)

The Kent Youth League is delighted to welcome a new sponsor for the 2021/22 season.

CAT-GK, run by former Kent Youth League players Charlie Himbury and Adam Molloy, provide top-quality goalkeeping gloves and will be part of a new initiative for the season (keep your eyes peeled for more on this soon!).

Speaking about the new partnership, Kent Youth League Chief Executive, Ken Brooke said: 

“The League looks forward to working with CAT – GK and Charlie and Adam as we look to ways of rewarding the often-unsung heroes of the team – the goalkeepers.”

“I have often been asked why the League always offers a reward for the highest scorers in each Division but never the keepers. So, look out for some exciting news ahead of the new season with our newest partners.”

“I would like to thank Charlie and Adam for arranging this and for coming to our League with their proposition. I and the league look forward to working with you both “

The partnership is something both Charlie and Adam are looking forward too, especially as they began their footballing careers playing in the Kent Youth League.

“CAT-GK are delighted to be sponsoring the KYL. Both of us at CAT-GK have come through the KYL ranks and it has given us the platform to go on and play at a high level.”

“Through our joint experience we have built a brand of Goalkeeper gloves and products that are of the highest quality but at a more affordable price. We want the next generation of goalkeepers to all experience the best products without having to pay huge prices.”

To find out more about CAT-GK visit their website by clicking here. Or like on Facebook, follow on Instagram and Twitter.

Sutton Athletic U15s striker, Chukwuka Uzor-greey  has signed  a year contract with Gillingham FC.

Chuks was signed without a trial after playing two games for Gillingham’s Academy against Peterborough and Charlton. He was offered a year contract immediately.

The League would like to congratulate Chuks and Sutton on this fantastic piece of news.

The Kent Youth League will be supporting a social media boycott led by The FA, Premier League, EFL, FA Women’s Super League, FA Women’s Championship, PFA, LMA, PGMOL, Kick It Out and the FSA.

From 15.00 on Friday 30 April to 23.59 on Monday 3 May, the League will be joining many other leagues and clubs in this boycott, in response to the ongoing and sustained discriminatory abuse received online by players and many others connected to football.

This has been scheduled to take place across a full fixture programme in the men’s and women’s professional game and will see clubs across the Premier League, EFL, WSL and Women’s Championship switch off their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts. We will be doing the same with our Twitter and Instagram accounts.

As a collective, the game recognises the considerable reach and value of social media to our sport. The connectivity and access to supporters who are at the heart of football remains vital.

However, the boycott shows English football coming together to emphasise that social media companies must do more to eradicate online hate, while highlighting the importance of educating people in the ongoing fight against discrimination.

In our letter of February 2021, English football outlined its requests of social media companies, urging filtering, blocking and swift takedowns of offensive posts, an improved verification process and re-registration prevention, plus active assistance for law enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute originators of illegal content. While some progress has been made, we reiterate those requests today in an effort to stem the relentless flow of discriminatory messages and ensure that there are real-life consequences for purveyors of online abuse across all platforms.

Boycott action from football in isolation will, of course, not eradicate the scourge of online discriminatory abuse, but it will demonstrate that the game is willing to take voluntary and proactive steps in this continued fight.

Finally, while football takes a stand, we urge the UK Government to ensure its Online Safety Bill will bring in strong legislation to make social media companies more accountable for what happens on their platforms, as discussed at the DCMS Online Abuse roundtable earlier this week.

Edleen John, The FA’s Director of International Relations, Corporate Affairs and Co-Partner for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, said: “It’s simply unacceptable that people across English football and society more broadly continue to be subjected to discriminatory abuse online on a daily basis, with no real-world consequences for perpetrators. This needs to change quickly, and we continue to urge social media companies to act now to address this. We will not stop talking about this issue and will continue to work with government in ensuring that the Online Safety Bill gives sufficient regulatory and supervisory powers to Ofcom. Social media companies need to be held accountable if they continue to fall short of their moral and social responsibilities to address this endemic problem.

“We have recently seen how powerful it can be when everybody is united for the good of the English game. We are calling on organisations and individuals across the game to join us in a temporary boycott of these social media platforms, to show solidarity and unite in the message that English football will not tolerate discrimination in any form.”

Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said: “Racist behaviour of any form is unacceptable and the appalling abuse we are seeing players receive on social media platforms cannot be allowed to continue.

“The Premier League and our clubs stand alongside football in staging this boycott to highlight the urgent need for social media companies to do more in eliminating racial hatred. We will not stop challenging social media companies and want to see significant improvements in their policies and processes to tackle online discriminatory abuse on their platforms.

“Football is a diverse sport, which brings together communities and cultures from all backgrounds and this diversity makes the competition stronger. No Room For Racism represents all the work we do to promote equality, diversity and inclusion and tackling discrimination.”

Trevor Birch, Chief Executive of the EFL said: “EFL clubs have expressed a clear desire to take a united stand against abhorrent racist, discriminatory, and threatening abuse on social media platforms which we fully support alongside the rest of the football family.

“While we recognise the value and role social media plays in our game, online abuse will not be tolerated and we will continue to strongly pursue all avenues open to us to affect change.

“The boycott is only part of the work being undertaken in this area but further highlights the need for social media companies to take additional responsibility for the inappropriate and unwelcome behaviour that appears on their platforms.

Simone Pound, Director of EDI at the PFA said: “Social media channels represent an extension of the working environment for professional footballers, and as the players’ union, we are committed to finding solutions that better protect our membership and the wider community from online abuse.

“As part of our work to address this issue, which started with the 24-hour #Enough boycott of social media channels, the PFA has been pushing for collaboration between the platforms, the game, the Government, police and CPS to find solutions and protect players from the abuse they face daily.

“In 2021, with a collective voice, we can hold social media companies to account and send a powerful message to a global audience – abusive behaviour is unacceptable.”

Sanjay Bhandari, Kick It Out Chair, said: “Social media is now sadly a regular vessel for toxic abuse. This boycott signifies our collective anger at the damage this causes to the people who play, watch and work in the game. By removing ourselves from the platforms, we are making a symbolic gesture to those with power. We need you to act. We need you to create change.

“We need social media companies to make their platforms a hostile environment for trolls rather than for the football family. We need the Government to hold its nerve and keep its promises to regulate. The Online Safety Bill could be a game changer and we aim to help make that happen. There should be no space for hate and everyone can play their part. If you watch, work in or love the game, join in.”

Richard Bevan, Chief Executive at the LMA said: “The LMA fully supports the social media boycott across the professional game. A unified silence will send a loud and powerful message to those that perpetrate online abuse that their actions will no longer be tolerated, and to the social media companies that they have a responsibility to do everything in their power to eradicate online hate.

“We also urge Government to understand the significance of this collective action and to ensure that its Online Safety Bill delivers appropriately strong legislation.”

Kevin Miles, Chief Executive of the Football Supporters’ Association said: “The Football Supporters’ Association is fully behind the game’s efforts to stamp out online hate and discrimination and will join next weekend’s social media boycott. Much media attention has rightly focused on the vile abuse aimed at players, managers and journalists in the men’s and women’s game and we see that aimed at fans groups too. It has to stop.

“Many of our most active fan groups tell us that they have received disgusting abuse when they are doing nothing more than trying to represent their supporter base. It’s a threat to the very existence of supporter organisations who are run by volunteers in their spare time. As fans we stand with players, managers, referees and all in the game in calling for the social media companies to step up.”

The Kent Youth League Appllication form for next season is now OPEN.

Please click here to apply.

EMC Academy U19’s are now recruiting for their 2021/22 squad. The post 16 sixth form alternative based in Rusthall offers players of all abilities the opportunity live the life of a professional footballer, whilst completing their studies.

Benefits include:

-Daily training

-UEFA A standard coaching

-Former professional footballers coaching

-Technical and Tactical sessions

-121 sessions

-Compete in a national league

-Compete in a national cup competition

-Video footage on all fixtures

-Weights programme for all players

-Nutritional advice for all players

-GPS vests for all players

-Pathways into semi professional and professional football

For more information, or to request a place in one of the upcoming trial fixtures, or to request a virtual interview please contact Jonny Elwood on 07894823459.

Full time football + A level and BTEC education

Register your interest now

Erith Town Football Club are looking for new scholars currently in year 11 who wish to become part of a successful club

3 Scholars from this seasons programme have featured in our 1st team in league games and the London Cup semi-final at Brentford FC and a scholar also won player of the week on Kent online this season.

We also have a further 8 scholars this season who have represented our under 23s side with a solid platform into senior football.

Our applications are open for this Years new intake of Erith Town scholars to start this September.

If you’re a current year 11 and interested please email us today erithtownpost16@hotmail.com

Covid-19 put paid to planned dates in October, December and February but with restrictions on grassroots football being eased at the end of the month, the club have confirmed Wednesday 7 April for their first trial ahead of a September start.

With Covid guidelines still in place, all trialists must register by Friday 2 April – there will be no on-the-day applications.

Invited applicants will be asked to arrive at the Gallagher Stadium from 4pm that day, with the trial finishing between 6.30 and 6.45pm.

Based at the home of the Stones, the club and Cornwallis Academy offer a two-year programme that combines academic sports studies, alongside football matches, training and qualifications

You get to play and train like a full time footballer at this state-of-the-art venue. The BTEC Sport course is an ideal route for employment in the sports industry or a pathway to university.

New academy head coach Billy Jones said: “Numbers for this September are really encouraging and we’re looking forward to putting the lads through their paces next month.

“I know this is a really difficult time for so many students, with the uncertainty about grades and teacher assessments. We’ll look to do all we can to support those who want to come here and continue their journey towards semi-pro or professional football.”

Two academy squads compete in the National League Under 19 Alliance – one of the largest leagues in the country – featuring academy teams backed by professional or semi-pro clubs. Academy students also represent the club in the prestigious FA Youth Cup.

A number of players have been called up to the first team and under-23 squads, with several others dual-registered with local clubs.

·         Apply for a place at the academy in September 2021

Our programme places players at the heart of the programme with the aim to develop and grow future players in an environment which is challenging, developmental and inspirational.

Our holistic approach to learning develops academic, coaching, football and social education.

Our unique training programme with our UEFA qualified coaches (including ex professional players), is supported by matches in the National Youth Alliance League and FA Youth Cup.

During the course students will receive an extensive Adidas kit package, VEO & Playermaker analysis.

Welling United are only 1 of 22 clubs who have achieved National League Football Academy Status, meaning we play in thehighest National Academy South league.
Following the completion of the programme, we support our students in the next stage of their career, with various pathway opportunities:

University in the UKUSA ScholarshipsGYM & Fitness InstructorFootball Contract (Pro & Semi-Pro)Football CoachingVarious other roles within the sports & leisure industry

Please see below links to register for our next available Scholarship Trials:
Scholarship Trials – Welling United FC (boys)
Girls Scholarship Trials – Welling United FC (girls)

If you require further information regarding the Scholarship Programme, please contact Academy Director Barry Jeffreys at barry.jeffreys@wellingunited.com

CEO Ken Brooke sits down with Charlotte Richardson to discuss a competitive return of football in the Kent Youth League on our Youtube channel.

Watch the video in full by clicking here.

In light of the Government’s recent Covid19 Roadmap announcement, the KYL is currently planning a return to football.

As part of these plans, CEO Ken Brooke will be taking questions from clubs, players, coaches and anyone else who wishes to submit any queries. In the session, Ken will address many things and the video will be live on our YouTube channel. Subscribe by clicking here.

If you’d like to submit a question please tweet the KYL Twitter account using the hashtag #KYLQuestions. Alternatively, you can email charlotte.richardson@kentyouthleague.co.uk We will attempt to get through as many questions as possible. If this format proves popular, we will look to host such Q & As throughout the season, at key times.

The FA has launched the The Grassroots Football Hub, the place to be for grassroots clubs and leagues who want to be built to last.

The Hub includes the latest insight, case studies, podcasts and more directly from The FA. The Hub also includes a YouTube channel with a new podcast called In The Box.

In The Box is co-hosted by our Website and Social Media Officer, Charlotte Richardson who as well as volunteering for the Kent Youth League, is a FA Club Consultant. Charlotte and Tom Lee, The FA’s National Club Services Manager will bring guidance and expertise to help teams, clubs and leagues alike.

In the first episode of the podcast, you’ll find expert advice on how to manage and boost your club’s cash-flow, along with some brilliant and 100% practical marketing tips from Charlotte herself to keep you and supporters better engaged during lockdown and beyond.

Watch Episode One of In The Box by clicking here.

Subscribe to The Grassroots Football hub here.

Applications are open for places at the Maidstone United Football Academy from September 2021 and a trial will take place later this month.

Based at the home of the Stones, the club and Cornwallis Academy offer a two-year programme that combines academic sports studies, alongside football matches, training and qualifications.

You get to play and train like a full time footballer at this state-of-the-art venue. The BTEC Sport course is an ideal route for employment in the sports industry or a pathway to university.

Two academy squads compete in the National League Under 19 Alliance – one of the largest leagues in the country – featuring academy teams backed by professional or semi-pro clubs. Academy students also represent the club in the prestigious FA Youth Cup.

A number of players have been called up to the first team and under-23 squads, with several others dual-registered with clubs in the Isthmian and Southern Counties East leagues.

The academy trial will be held on Wednesday 30 December at 11:00. Due to current Covid-19 guidelines, applicants must register in advance, no on-the-day triallists will be permitted.

• Apply for a place at the academy in September 2021

From Tuesday 1 December, the Kent Youth League will run an Advent Calendar across our Twitter and Instagram pages.

Each day, a festive window will open to reveal a randomly selected player from our League. This player will receive a £10 Newitts Online Voucher to spend on their website. 

This is just a little token from us to engage with players and do something nice to do throughout December, especially when we’re all missing our football so much.

So, make sure you’re following the KYL on Twitter and Instagram and keep an eye on the #KYLChristmas hashtag!

From 3:30pm on Wednesday 25th November, prospective students can access Margate FC’s Virtual Open Evening. 

To join in please visit www.hernebayhigh.org.

You’ll also be able to find all the information you need on The Gate’s Post-16 Academy, subject specific information and wider sixth form.

Tonbridge Angels Football Academy Open Trial!

Be Part of our successful Football Scholarship Programme from September 2021 and join last years National u19 Youth League Champions

Our 1st trial will be on TUESDAY 27th OCTOBER, at Hugh Christie School from 10am till 12pm

Make sure you apply by https://form.jotformeu.com/72962217180355 or by emailing tafcacademy@outlook.com as soon as possible to book your place.

The new Angels Academy has proven to be a massive success in the past 2 seasons and will provide you with a chance to develop your footballing potential while at the same time providing you with nationally recognised qualifications (A Levels and/or a BTEC National Level 3 sport) & gaining your FA level 1 coaching badge.

As well as daily football training, Academy members will have the opportunity of being part of a squad competing in the National u19 youth League or the Kent academies league aswell as the prestigious FA Youth cup.

So far in this year in our 2 years of running the scheme our achievements to date are as follow;

• 100% pass rate at BTEC level 3 sport 
• 8 players making a first team debuts
• Over 20 different players have trained with the 1st team 
• 1 player on trial at Premier League side Leicester City and 1 player on Trial at league 1 side Gillingham 
• Several players being loaned out to senior men’s teams
• National u19 League Champions 19/20 season 

Don’t forget to apply via the link or email address and it could be your first step in obtaining a fulfilling and rewarding career in semi-professional football aswell as further developing you academic profile

For more information check out: 

Ebbsfleet United are now beginning to applications for their Academy.

Download the Academy’s flyer by clicking here.

To apply please click here.

The Kent Youth League is delighted to announce our partnership with FFX, Folkestone Fixings.

With branches in Ashford and Folkestone and its head office and distribution centre in Lympne, Kent.  Their online business is operated from Lympne and today one of the largest independent suppliers of power tools and power tool accessories, hand tools, fixings and fasteners, and general construction consumables.

One great team supporting another FFX are now the sponsors of the Kent Youth League U16s and U18s League Cups and a brand you will be seeing more of over the coming Season.

FFX sells everything from power tools and related accessories, hand tools, fixings and fasteners, general construction consumables, and a massive range of building materials from timber to bricks, from decking to insulation, from drainage products to roofing materials. There are too many to list here; FFX is a real ‘one-stop-shop’!

The knowledgeable and friendly staff at their Folkestone and Ashford branches look forward to welcoming you and making sure you have a truly first-class shopping experience. Visit www.ffx.co.uk/branch for contact details, opening times and locations.

THE EUFC ACADEMY
EUFC Elite oversees the management and day to day running of all junior teams (U8 – U16s) associated with Ebbsfleet United FC and the academy programme offers an extension to this traditional youth football, by offering players age 16+ with the opportunity to continue on their footballing journey in supporting their dreams and aspirations of building a career within the game.

Our academy is designed to aid and support those players wishing to continuing pursuing a career within the game, with programme designed to offer support and guidance in helping to achieve those aspirations through structure training and developmental sessions to help understand the demands and requirements as they progress into adult football.

All players offered opportunity to join our Academy do so, knowing that the programme they will sign up to has been specifically designed to incorporate a football and educational element that is paramount to aid their development.

WHAT TO EXPECT…
Players receive everything you would expect as a modern-day professional footballer:

• Training and games on state-of-the-art playing surfaces.
• Compete in U19 Youth Alliance League.
• FA Youth Cup
• Opportunities to be invited to train, play with First Team and/or go out on loan to gain first team experience.
• Coaching by fully qualified and experienced UEFA qualified coaches with a vast experience having worked across all levels of the game.
• A fully comprehensive timetable that incorporates both Football and Education which has been designed around their training and games programme.

VENUES
The Academy is delivered daily from Elite Venue, Dunkirk Close, Gravesend, Kent DA12 5ND

Elite Venue has good public transport from London and Kent:

• Gravesend Train Station
• Ebbsfleet International Station
• Gravesend Ferry
• Arriva Bus Service – 483 Stops Directly Outside Venue

COST
Joining the Academy is FREE, the only costs associated to students include:

• Daily travel to & from Academy
• Academy Training & Matchday Kit
• Educational Resources – General Stationary and a Memory Stick
• All students will be given opportunity to apply for a bursary towards these costs and will be advised to apply once they have successfully enrolled.

COURSE OPTIONS

Students sign up to a two-year full-time academic programme with course options linked to their GCSE results or alternative academic studies with them being able to enrol onto one of the following courses:

• BTEC Level 2 First Certificate in Sport
• BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Sport
• BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sport
• GCSE & Functional Skills in Maths and English

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum of 3 GCSEs Grade A-C or 4 and above in Maths and English
• A minimum of two ID documents to prove eligibility to be educated in England
• EU Students – an in-date passport, birth certificate or national insurance number.
• Non-EU students – must provide visa documents that state your residency details along with a national insurance number.

POTENTIAL PATHWAYS/EXIT ROUTES 
There are many potential pathways open to graduates on completion of their academic journey, which may include but not limited to:

FOOTBALL

• Scholarship at a Professional Football Club

• Contract offer at a Professional Football Club, Non- League or Club with the Football Pyramid

FURTHER EDUCATION

• Opportunities to attend University and/or Football Scholarship within America.

EMPLOYMENT

• Football Coaching or Career within Leisure Industry.

NEXT STEPS/EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
If you feel that EUFC Academy is the place that you would like to continue developing both as a player and academically, then to secure your place at one of our trial dates please complete the online registration form.

Once you have registered, all you will need to do is attend the trial date selected, where you will be met by members of EUFC Academy who will arrange for you to complete an initial academic assessment, then take part in a training and/or games session that will allow us opportunity to gain a greater understanding of you both on the pitch and within the classroom.

All players who wish to attend the trials will be required to attend with correct kit to take part in a training session including boots and shin pads with plenty of fluids – changing facilities and showers will be accessible to use after training.

You can APPLY NOW for the trials listed below by clicking here.

EUFC Elite & Fleet Leisure Planning Approval 

Wednesday 22^nd July 2020 will go down in history for EUFC Elite as Gravesham Council awarded full planning permission (subject to conditions) to redevelop of Fleet Leisure in Nelson Road Gravesend DA12 5ND.

In 2016 former EUFC United player Danny Kedwell and business partner Nathan Bullas where asked to take over the management and day to day running of the Youth (U7-U16) and Academy section (U16-18) as they would be able to dedicate the much needed time, effort and knowledge in order to sustain and establish potential growth for players within Gravesham and the wider Kent Community.

Upon taking on this challenge it became clearly evident that in order for this to happen, that not only did we need to identify and secure a suitable site to call home but we also needed to improve access to suitable sport and leisure facilities within the Borough that were somewhat limited.

In 2017 phase one was awarded having successfully securing the lease to Nelson Road, which would form the base for building the foundations and offer us the opportunity for growth as the site had been derelict for a number of years, having had a rich history of football since and was a hub for sport and leisure within Gravesham. 

Upon being awarded the lease, this allowed us opportunity to progress into phase two of submitting plans for a full redevelopment of the site to bring it back to its glory days with regular sporting activity taking place throughout the week and weekends that the borough could be proud off.

Now after 3 years of planning, meetings, discussions and consultations with the council, local community, Kent FA and Sport England we are excited to see the fruits of our labour as we move into phase 3 and look to put “Fleet Leisure” back on the map as the leading sports and leisure hub in the South East of England.

Over the coming months we now look ahead to begin the redevelopment of the site, that will offer the local community, schools and grass root clubs’ access:

• 2 Full Size Pitches (Natural and 4G)
• 3 7 a-side Pitches with one Incorporating 2 5 a-side (4G)
• 1 9 a-side Pitch (Natural)
• Children’s Play Area
• Fully Equipment Gym
• Fitness Suite
• Spin Room
• Physio / Sports Rehab 
• Classroom Facilities
• Function Rooms
• Bar Area with Balcony Access to Pitches

Check out the website for more info by clicking here.

Welling United Under 18s are looking for friendlies during the month of August. Happy to look at particular dates and venue.Please contact Jeff Prosser 07958558093

Just finished year 11 and not sure what to do? Or in year 12 and want a change?

Tonbridge Angels football Academy have 2 SPACES left to join our scholarship programme at Hugh Christie School for Septembers 2020/21. 

Tonbridge Angels football academy offer a ride range of A level & BTEC qualifications, alongside a full time football Scholarship at Hugh Christie School. Students are also offered the chance to do their FA level 1 qualification with an option in their 3rd year to do a Level 3 Personal Training Qualification. All scholars train 3 times a week & compete for Tonbridge Angels on a Wednesday Afternoon in the National u19 youth league or Kent Academies league. Tom

The scheme is headed up by UEFA A Licence coach & 1st team coach/Captain Tom Parkinson, alongside coaches, Hugo Langton (UEFA A licence & Welling United assistant manager), Jamie Coyle (UEFA A Licence coach & FA Licensed Tutor), Dom Welsh & Rhys Bartlett. 

In our 2 years of running we have had the following success so far:

• National u19 League Winners
• 8 1st team debuts
• 18 different players train with the 1st team
• 1 player on trial with Leicester City 
• 100% BTEC level 3 pass rate 
• 18 FA Level 1 coaches 
• 6 players go to University 
• 1 Academy student Head Boy of the Hugh Christie Sixth Form
• 1 Academy student Deputy Head boys of the Hugh Christie Sixth Form 

To sign up please use the link: https://eu.jotform.com/form/92911723517357 or email: tafcacademy@outlook.com

For more information please use the link:

Sheila Boswell has asked the Kent Youth League to extend her very grateful thanks for all the very many lovely cards, letters and phone calls she has received after the loss of Colin.

Many thanks to all the clubs, leagues, referees and friends for their memories and tributes paid to him. Colin would never have expected the tremendous reaction to his death and would have been very humbled by it, at the same time glad that he had been able to help so many along the way

If you’d like to make a donation to our Kent Youth League fundraising tribute to Colin Boswell, please click here.

On the 23rd of May, our CEO Ken Brooke had the very sad task of informing you of the passing of a true legend of Kent Football, Colin Boswell.

Colin, our founder and Life President, passed away after a short battle against cancer. 

Colin set up the youth league in 1981 and was formidable in his passion for creating opportunity for players across the county.  Colin was also President of the Kent FA and had served Kent football for over 50 years.

As a tribute to Colin and in line with a request from his family, we are kindly asking the Kent Youth League family – if they are able and would like – to donate to Cancer Research UK.

There is a massive hole in our football world which will be impossible to fill. We thank everyone for their tributes to Colin. As a league, as a committee and as friends of Colin, we will miss him dearly and always be grateful for his dedicated service, friendly smile and warm demeanour.

If you’d like to make a donation to our Kent Youth League fundraising tribute to Colin Boswell, please click here.

A true legend of Kent Football and my very great friend Colin Boswell sadly passed away overnight after a short battle against cancer. I was privileged to take over the role of Chief Executive of the Kent Youth League in 2013 from Colin who set up the youth league in 1981. A former football league linesman in the 60s and 70s Colin shared many stories of his games at places like Highbury and of course Crystal Palace where as a youngster I would have seen him without knowing.

I have so many stories to tell as Colin had a great sense of humour and told the daftest jokes which were funny because they were so corny. Colin was also President of the Kent FA and had served the County for over 50 years.

Many of you know my passion for football and this man exceeded even my commitments to the greatest game – and he gave me a route into football admin that I swore I would never go down! That’s how good he was in persuading me and he has taught me everything I know about running a league.

Even though I have been in charge of the league for a while he was always at the end of the phone and I will so badly miss our chats.

He gave me the opportunity to manage the Kent FA Representative teams and helped me achieve my greatest moment in capturing the FA County Youth Cup for Kent in 2010 the one and only time in 76 years – he was a massive part of this success.

Sheila Boswell his wife has been my surrogate Mum since we first met – some of my best moments were when Sheila told Colin off – but behind every great man is a great woman and Sheila my thoughts and prayers are for you and your boys and your grandchildren.

I have a massive hole in my football world which will be impossible to feel – take a look at our league twitter #kentyouthleague to see the tributes to Colin. It says it all really and to my friend – thank you – I will miss you greatly – and I will continue to remember all the bits of advice that you gave me.

May you Rest In Peace and so pleased you are out of pain – so long my friend and so sorry the dreaded virus stopped me from seeing you at the end – always remembered and never forgotten.

Ken Brooke

Glebe FC has been awarded £10,000 of National Lottery funding from Sport England’s Community Emergency Fund towards ground costs, maintenance, utility bills and other essential running costs during the on-going COVID-19 pandemic.

The outbreak of the virus and the consequent shutdown of businesses as of March 23rd has left the sport and physical activity sector facing a period of uncertainty.

In response, on March 31 Sport England announced a £195m package to help the sport and physical activity sector through covid-19. Within the package is a £20m Community Emergency Fund, of National Lottery money to deliver immediate funding to those who have a role in supporting the nation to be active but are experiencing short-term financial hardship or the ceasing of operations due to the impact of coronavirus.

Rocky Mc Millan, Chairman, Glebe FC, said:

“We are extremely grateful for the help Sport England have given us with this grant. Without these funds, the club would have found itself in a very testing financial position. With this support, we now look forward to providing best in class facilities for our members in the new season”

Tim Hollingsworth, Sport England’s Chief Executive, said:

“As the body responsible for the growth of sport and physical activity participation, we want the vital grassroots organisations that make sport and physical activity happen in this country to not just to come through this crisis but to be in a position to thrive again in the future. The £20m Community Emergency fund, made possible by National Lottery players is part of a multimillion pound package of support we are providing to ease the pressure on a huge number of the organisations who are central to the nation’s health and wellbeing.

“We are proud to be able to provide vital funding to Glebe FC to help it through these extremely challenging times.”

During these most difficult of times, we know lots of our clubs, coaches and volunteers are looking ahead to plan in a positive manner for when football eventually resumes. The League remains active in supporting the return to football whenever that should be.

As part of this, our new online application form is now live. We accept that trials and even meeting up with players is a long way away. However, we urge you to complete the application forms and return to us at this stage with NO MONEY as we want to get an idea of clubs intentions for next season.

We also understand the huge economic impact of this virus and the heartache for many at this time who have seen their businesses fold, or who have been furloughed by their employers including many staff at the Kent FA. That is why we will insist on no monies being paid at this stage.

I will end by ensuring you all that the League will be here to support the return to football whenever that may be and to hope that you can understand the decision we have taken – we can never please everyone in anything that we do, but surviving the next few months both financially, mentally, and healthily is just too important for us all.

Please click here to fill in your 2020/21 online application form.

In these unprecedented times it must be said that this season for our League and all other leagues has been a real battle almost from the last weekend in September when the rain began and if I am not mistaken we had at least one or more games called off every weekend until the season was correctly bought to an end by the FA following the Coronavirus outbreak.

It is fair to say that we were always going to struggle to get the number of games outstanding played and we have certainly learnt a lot about division sizes with hopefully next season in mind.

As you are all aware the FA took the decision to end all youth football for season 2019 – 2020 following the outbreak of Coronavirus as we all make huge adjustments to everyday life which far outweigh at present the need to be playing football or indeed any sport. It is often hard to describe the situation we all find ourselves in, and every one of us will be dealing with our own situations of “social distancing” “self-isolation” and the like in our own ways and of course if any of you have loved ones that have the virus and are currently being treated in hospital, we wish them a full recovery.

It is impossible at this stage to know when the enforced lockdown will be lifted and everyone’s health and safety is of course paramount in these “historical times”.

I am personally very aware that my Committee are also facing their own challenges and we have had to take a decision that none of us when we put our hands up to help run this fantastic league thought we would have to make. As I hope all of you know, I ran a youth team for lots of years so I know how much time and effort goes into just getting a team playing on a Sunday and nobody misses football more than I do. I say this as the decision we have made as a League Committee has not been taken lightly and will undoubtedly disappoint a few, but I am sure that having had time to reflect it is the right decision, and my message at the end will I hope leave you all in no doubt that we want to make season 2020 – 2021 the best ever for the players of this League.

I am therefore on behalf of the Committee advising you that the Kent Youth League Management Committee has made the following decision :

The Kent Youth League has unanimously agreed to follow the FA’s recommendation applied to the National League system and Woman’s pyramid. All league results and divisional league tables  will be expunged and no winners and runners up will be determined. To avoid any doubt this will apply to every division in the League.

With regards to Cup Finals. The season would otherwise officially end on 30^th June 2020 after which all clubs can then start signing new players for next season. Given that our Cups are age banded and we recognise that players will move on to new teams, it has again been unanimously agreed to cancel all Cup Finals and award a special Cup Final medal to those teams and their players who have made the Finals but unfortunately will not have the chance to play the game.

We will contact those clubs in due course who have made the Finals this season, but of course at present this is “non-essential” as our Suppliers Faversham Trophies are currently not working.

You will have received from Cat in the last few days our new online application form. Whilst again we accept that trials and even meeting up with your players are a long way away, we urge you to complete the application forms and return to us at this stage with NO MONEY as we want to get an idea of clubs intentions for next season. We also understand the huge economic impact of this virus and the heartache for many at this time who have seen their businesses fold, or who have been furloughed by their employers including many staff at the Kent FA. That is why we will insist on no monies being paid at this stage.

We will work with you as we always do but with the proviso that we realistically have no idea when things will change at present and so things will need to remain flexible for the time being.

The FA through Sport England has made some monies available to help clubs in these difficult times. Please click here to find out more.

I will end by ensuring you all that the League will be here to support the return to football whenever that may be and to hope that you can understand the decision we have taken – we can never please everyone in anything that we do, but surviving the next few months both financially, mentally, and healthily is just too important for us all.

For those of you who are working in the NHS and other front line services or who have family in these roles – may I on behalf of the League THANK YOU and please note that your daily efforts in doing what you do receives total admiration from me personally.

Here’s hoping to see you all soon fit and healthy and thank you as always for your continued support.

Thank you for patience in these most difficult times.

Last Thursday the guidance sent out by the FA via the County office was that all Leagues should where possible follow the FA guidelines to bring our competition to an immediate end with all results expunged. This was also supported by the Management Committee.

However, today, the FA sent out a further email via the Kent FA to suggest that some League’s had opted for the other option to decide League positions by a points per game calculation.

It is now being suggested by County that we may wish to hold a Special General Meeting (SGM) to get the clubs feedback and put the options to a vote.

In order for me to discuss this with the Management Committee and to get some feedback from the Kent FA, no final decision will now be made by the League. We will consider all options and will advise you in the next few days and no later than 5pm Friday of what we will be offering to the conclusion of the season.

This will also include Cup Finals as well.

Today was meant to be the day that we put applications on the website for next season (2020-21) but I will hold this back until the weekend so that we can finalise this season first.

Any applications that are submitted after next weekend will not need any payment at this stage as would normally be the case.

The League will work with clubs to ensure that no fees are payable until players are back training, and we will focus on this when the time is right.

These are unchartered waters for us all, so please bear with us.

This is the statement from the FA – “Following the Government’s announcement today, for people to avoid social contact and gatherings where possible, we are now advising that all grassroots football in England is postponed for the foreseeable future.”

“Throughout this period, we have taken Government advice with the priority being the health and wellbeing of all. We will continue to work closely with the grassroots game during this time.”

“We are in regular communication with the Government and the situation within English football at all levels remains under regular review. Further updates will follow as needed.”

I have taken the decision this evening to postpone all matches up to and including Sunday 5th April and will speak with the Kent FA tomorrow to see what options we have – sadly the U13, U14 and U16 Cup Finals are postponed. I will update further tomorrow. I am equally gutted as most of you are but we are part of something that is going to change our everyday life for a good while and we must protect those who are at risk from this horrible virus.

All coaches and managers from the Kent Youth League are invited to attend a free coach development evening centred around supporting your goalkeeper. This exciting CPD will be tutored by Dover Athletic’s current first team goalkeeper, Lee Worgan.

The details of the free event are below:

• Date: Thursday 5 March 2020
• Time: 18:30 – 20:30
• Open to: all Kent Youth League Coaches
• Venue: Abbey School,  London Road,  Faversham, ME13 8RZ
• Cost: FREE
• Set up: 1 hour theory, 1 hour practical with goalkeepers from Faversham Strike Force

This event is exclusively for Kent Youth League coaches but we anticipate the 24 spaces will go very quickly. If you wish to attend then please book yourself on as soon as possible by scrolling down on this link, finding the ‘Developing Your Goalkeepers in the Youth Development Phase’ and clicking to book: http://www.kentfa.com/coaches/development-and-courses/cpd-and-in-service.

If you have any questions then please get in touch with Luke.Baker@kentfa.com

The Kent Youth League finals are the pinnacle of our season. Each and every year, clubs across the county battle it out for a spot at a #KYLFinals. Our competitions travel across the county, engaging clubs, players, coaches, parents and officials county-wide.

Without the support of partners and sponsors, the KYL Cup Finals simply wouldn’t be the outstanding occasions that they are. In supporting youth football, in turn as a League we like to welcome and host our sponsors at Cup Finals.

This season, finals take place on the following dates and at the following locations:

• Under 13s sponsored by Colour ‘n Cover – 12th March at Maidstone United
• Under 14s sponsored by Reader & Phillips – 19th March at Glebe FC
• Under 15s sponsored by Faversham Trophies – 5th May TBC at Gillingham FC
• Under 16s – 26th March at Sheppey United
• Under 18s – 23rd April at Corinthian FC
• President’s Cup – 30th April at Corinthian

Gold Package Package – £400 – Cup sponsor

• Sponsor of age group competition for example; The Soccer Elite U16s KYL Final
• Full page advert in your relevant Kent Youth League Cup final programme
• Advertising spot on our Kent Youth League homepage until 31 May (hyperlinked to your site)
• Website article on KYL website
• Shout out on social media
• Tagged in relevant content corresponding to your age group competition

Silver Package – £200

• Full page advert in each of our Kent Youth League Cup final programmes
• Advertising spot on our Kent Youth League homepage until 31 May (hyperlinked to your site)
• Shout out on social media 

Bronze Package – £50

• 1/4 page advert in each of our Kent Youth League Cup final programmes
• Advertising spot on our Kent Youth League homepage until 31 May (hyperlinked to your site)

If you’d be interested in supporting the League’s Cup Finals whilst promoting your business, please email charlotte.richardson@kentyouthleague.co.uk

The Kent Youth League is proud to support our charity partner for the 2019/20 season, Redthread. Redthread’s mission is to empower young people to thrive as they navigate the challenging transition to adulthood by integrating trauma-informed youth work into the health sector.

Since its formation in 1981, the Kent Youth League runs with the aim of giving our players an opportunity to showcase their talents in the best possible environments. With 195 teams across 16 Divisions and 6 Cup Competitions, we take great pride in running a League that provides a safe haven for young people to develop, both as footballers and as citizens in society.

We are now giving clubs the chance to bid to select a committee member to perform a range of challenges at their club. Each month, we will announce what the challenge is and by donating you’ll be putting in your bid to have your selected committee member complete an arduous task.

This month, have one of the KYL Committee come to your club to clean your team’s boots. You can pick between:

• Charlotte
• Richard
• Ken
• Cat

Simply make a donation, and the largest donation will have a committee member come to their club to complete the task! Please give generously by clicking here. The ‘winner’ will be announced at the end of the month.

Margate Academy players have recently been selected by Jay Saunders, as the set-up continues to grow from strength to strength in partnership with Herne Bay High.

Margate’s full-time Academy offers those aged 16 and above the chance to study A Levels and BTEC qualifications -with a total of 42 different courses on offer – whilst training and playing at HDP.

The players are developed ready for the first team, as Academy Manager Ricky Owen explained.

“Our Academy is growing from strength to strength and it is pleasing to see the boys’ hard work rewarded with first-team call ups. Opportunities have to be earned but the player pathway structure is now fully embedded and offers something to unique for those thinking about what they’d like to do after GCSEs are complete.”

“There is no better chance to develop than those match day experiences and under the guidance of Jay, Mike, Craig and senior first team players, the boys learn so much and will continue their progression.”

Owen added, “Pathway opportunities play a huge part in our recruitment because we can offer genuine progression for talented and hard-working players. Jay fully supports our Academy and has a great record in developing talented players so as we begin to look ahead to the next academic year, there is no better time to join our full-time set-up.”

Margate FC Academy hosts its first trial at Hartsdown Park on 21st February from 10am-12pm. To come along or find out more, please email footballacademy@hernebayhigh.org

TONBRIDGE ANGELS FOOTBALL ACADEMY are having their 1st open Trial on Wednesday 19th and Thursday 20th February 2020, for September 2020 intake. The trials will be held at Hugh Christie School, TN10 4PU from 10am-12pm on both days
If you are in year 11/12, love football and want to gain qualifications then Tonbride Angels Football Academy could be for you. Tonbridge Angels Football academy is in partnership with Hugh Christie school and gives you the opportunity to study A Levels &/or BTEC courses alongside training daily and competing in fixtures every Wednesday.
In our 1st 16 months of opening we have already had the following success:

• 8 players making 1st team debuts
• 20 different players training with the 1st team
• 100% BTEC level 3 sport pass rate
• Academy is head boy of the sixth form
• Academy scholar is deputy head boy of the sixth
• 3 scholars going to university
• 1 Player on trial at Premier League side Leicester city

If you are interested in joining our scholarship scheme please sign up via: https://form.jotformeu.com/92911723517357

After the success of previous year’s events Kings Hill Football Club has
pleasure in inviting teams to attend our 7th Annual Summer Football Tournament
on the weekend of 30^th & 31^st May at the
fantastic Kings Hill Sports Park, Beacon
Avenue, Kings Hill, West Malling, Kent, ME19 4QP. Matches will be played on
either grass or 3G pitches.

We will be running sections from U7’s to
U15’s as well as U10, U11, U13 & U15 Girls age groups and a Frame Football
section

U7
& U8

The tournament will be 5-a-side (max 10 players per team)

U10
Girls & U9

The tournament will be 7-a-side (max 10 players per team)

U11
Girls (playing U12 Girls format), U13 Girls, U10 (playing U11 format), U11
& U12

The tournament will be 9-a-side (max 12 players per team)

U13,
U14, U15 & U15 Girls

The tournament will be 6-a-side (max 9 players per team)

Projected Timetable
(subject to change, depending on number of entries)

Saturday 30^th
May AM – U9s & U12s

Saturday 30^th
May PM – U10 Girls, U11s & U14s

Sunday 31^st
May AM – U8s, U13s, U11 Girls and U13 Girls

Sunday 31^st
May PM – U7s, U10s, U15s & U15 Girls

*Under 7’s will play in a non-competitive
fun day with all players receiving a medal at the end of their session. There
will be no knockout stages in this age group.

**Under 7’s – 12’s (excl. Under 10s & U11 Girls) standard rules will
apply for the format of football being played (i.e. 5, 7, 9 a side)

*** U11 Girls and U10s will
give an opportunity to play the format of football you will be playing next
season. U10 Girls will remain at 7 a side.

NB;
Based upon FA requirements, for the U10 section (playing U11 format), players
must have attained the age of 9 years old by 31/8/19 (i.e. must not have been
playing up from U9 to U10 in the 2019/20 season).

Please
note: As with previous years there will be cup and shield competitions in most
sections meaning more games and more teams having a chance to reach a final and
win a trophy. For all age groups except U7, winners and runners up of both the Cup
and Shield only receive medals.

The tournament
is not open to academy teams. Kent Youth League teams are allowed to play in
their 2019/20 season age groups.

The age groups will be as at 2019/20 season. Please note under FA Rule
4(a)(i) that a player who had not attained the age of 6 as of midnight on 31
August 2019 is not eligible to play in this tournament.

If you wish to enter a team(s)
please complete the entry form and return, with entry fee, as soon as possible.
Entry forms with the option to pay by bank transfer can also be completed at
this link; Kings
Hill FC Tournament 2020

Team spaces will be
allocated on a first come, first served basis and are strictly limited.

No spaces will be reserved until both entry form and payment is received.
Excluding Kings Hill Football Club, there is a limit of 2 teams per club per
age group. It is extremely disruptive for entered teams to subsequently drop
out near the tournament date so please confirm availability with your players
before entering.

The closing date for entries is 30th April 2020.  The entry fee for the tournament is £40 per
team.  Please
do not delay in returning your entry. 
Last year some age groups were oversubscribed by between 50% and 100%

Cheques should be made payable to Kings Hill FC and sent to the name and address details at the end of the entry form.  Cheques will not be banked until we have
confirmed that you have a place at the tournament.  Further information regarding the football
tournament including format and rules, the facilities and parking will be sent
out to you by email in early May 2020.

We thank you for your
support and look forward to seeing teams from your club at the tournament.

For all tournament related
correspondence please use the email address tournamentkhfc@gmail.com and
follow us on Twitter @kingshillfc1
& like our Facebook page.

Tournament Team,

Kings Hill Football Club

Dover Athletic FC are looking for a Manager for their U18 team who will be competing in the Kent Youth League next season.

The Main Club competes in the National League and therefore the Youth Section is run in a very professional manner and through our continued focus on Coach development we have a great reputation for developing players of all ages.

We are looking for a Manager who is organised, professional, dedicated and has a proven track record for offering quality coaching. A person who can motivate and encourage youth players to achieve and exceed their playing potential and guide them along their football career path.

You will need to have a current FA DBS as well as in date FA Safeguarding and First Aid certifications and have a minimum of FA Level 2 in coaching.

If you want to challenge yourself and want to work within a Youth Section that is passionate about coach & player development then this is the job for you.

If you are interested please apply by email with a copy of your footballing cv to Jon Barrett our Youth Section Secretary jon@sportyshop.co.uk

Closing date Friday 21^st February 2020