Since its inception in 2008, the Brooke House College Football Academy has become a beacon for young talent in the football world. Now hosting over 200 players aged 11 to 19 from diverse backgrounds, the academy prides itself on its inclusive approach and impressive track record. Remarkably, more than 60 alumni have advanced to professional football careers, with many also representing their national teams across both youth and senior levels.
The Academy is organized into different age group teams including Under 14, Under 16, Under 17, and Under 19. This structure allows young athletes to compete at appropriate levels, enhancing their development. Players participate in a variety of competitions, such as the ISFA, ESFA, and County Cups, and play against a range of teams from professional clubs to school sides. This competitive exposure is crucial for their growth and experience.
Athletes at the academy are not only focused on football; their academic growth is equally prioritized. During weekday mornings, they engage in standard academic classes ranging from GCSEs to A-Level and University Foundation programs alongside their peers, ensuring a well-rounded education. Tailored academic plans are crafted for each student following detailed discussions with the Director of Studies, ensuring personalized educational paths.
Each afternoon, the academy implements a Long Term Player Development Model to hone players' skills technically, tactically, physically, and psychologically. This comprehensive training approach includes on-pitch sessions, classroom lessons, and analysis workshops, supplemented by gym workouts tailored to individual development needs.
The holistic development of students extends into their social life. Weekends and evenings are filled with homework, football games, and a variety of social activities and excursions, including visits to professional football matches and tours of major stadiums, enhancing their understanding and love of the sport.
Located on the outskirts of Market Harborough, the academy boasts advanced training facilities including 3G and 4G artificial pitches, multiple grass pitches, and dedicated areas for tactical classroom sessions and physical conditioning. It also features an injury and rehabilitation clinic, a fully equipped gym, and comprehensive kit issuance to all academy players, ensuring they are well-prepared and supported.
The academy rigorously records and analyzes every match and training session. Utilizing professional-grade GPS systems and video analysis, the performance data is meticulously recorded, helping in detailed assessment and improvement plans for each player. The strength and conditioning coaches are dedicated to maximizing athletes' physical potential through personalized training routines.
Numerous academy graduates have gone on to achieve significant milestones. Notable alumni include
Deniche Hill
Deniche Hill from Bermuda progressed through the ranks of the Brooke House College U15/ U16 and U18 teams prior to signing professional terms with Leicester City FC in the summer transfer window of 2022. A pacy left sided player he is a full Bermudian international.
Denys Bunchukov
Former Football Academy student Denys joined Brooke House as an U17 and after two years at the Academy, he went on to sign for Belgium Pro league side RFC Seraing.
Zane Okoro
Zane joined the Football Academy as an U14 player and after two years he earned a scholarship contract at Lincoln City Football Club.
The academy frequently organizes trial events and engages with scouts from prestigious clubs worldwide, ensuring players receive ample opportunities to showcase their talents. Its strong connections with professional clubs in England and across Europe facilitate regular competitive fixtures, helping players gain the crucial match experience that is so vital at higher levels.
Whether you're looking to develop as a player or to experience the academy firsthand, Brooke House College Football Academy offers a comprehensive program that nurtures both the athlete and the individual, preparing them for challenges both on and off the field.