Gwalia United have kicked off their new era with the launch of their first football academy.
Starting in September 2024, girls aged 16–18 interested in football will have a place to pursue their dream in Wales in partnership with an esteemed football club.
The course in Coleg Y Cymoedd which is two years long offers a BTEC level three diploma in sport. The BTEC includes a full-time football training programme, vocational experience in football, a competitive league to play in and a homestay programme for students.
Course leader Kathryn Morgan made history in 2010 becoming the first Welsh woman to pass the UEFA A license coaching course.
Kathryn along with Claire O’Sullivan, both former Welsh internationals, are two of the key figures helping to take Welsh female football to another level.
“I believe Gwalia United has chosen us [Coleg Y Cymoedd] due to the fact that Claire O’Sullivan and myself have over 50 years of coaching experience.”
Claire O’Sullivan, like Kathryn has played for and captained Wales.
“We have both played for Wales, captained our country, and coached at the highest level.” Said Kathyrn.
The academy has already been a fantastic opportunity for young women and this partnership can only better that.
“Joining our program will help them to develop physically, technically, and tactically as an individual. They will learn to understand how a professional player trains and how to manage time as a life skill by balancing training and academic work.” Said Morgan
“It is a privilege for us to accept this partnership with Gwalia United.”
“All parties have a mutual respect for the work we do as well as sharing the same core values and commitment to improve and develop young players as individuals, both on and off the field. This is not a new academy – we will continue to work as professionals day in day out as we strive to improve female players. We will now welcome Gwalia United players to our college and work closely with the club to ensure that all aspects of their experience are a positive one.” She said.
