23-02-2024, 03:57 PM
(23-02-2024, 03:36 PM)Isley46 Wrote: it wouldn't be surprising if the Academy was closed down - The Women's team has probably had more focus and investment than the U18's & U16's for the last 18 months or so and they don't seem to be able to keep hold of coaching staff for long.
I think the first 'big step' for prospects is U14 when they sign a two year contract - Would Pompey Academy be high on the list for player & parents if there were other options available and knowing pathway is very limited?
I would argue if a parent saw the club had a recognised pathway of age groups up to first team it would make pompey more of a consideration. Their kids have a realistically higher chance of making our team rather than just being treated as a commodity and barely having a hint of a career at a big set up.