Weston AFC seek new talent to join their Academy

Back in January the club announced they would be making major investments into their set-up, creating new positions within the management structure and the launch of an inclusive bursary scheme.

Two months later Simon Panes was appointed as Head of Academy and Recruitment with Mark McKeever becoming Head of Coaching, whilst combining his role as Head of Academy Senior Phase and first team coach.

Weston AFC confirmed Craig Graham and Matt Bazell would continue their roles with the Academy in March. (Image: Lorna Davey)

Weston confirmed Matt Bazell and Craig Graham would continue their roles as Head of Development Phase and Head of Foundation Phase respectively.

And former Bristol City and Cardiff City scout Jerry White was then appointed Head of Recruitment.

The success of the academy, with Weston one of only 22 clubs outside of the Football League to hold a licence nationally and the only one in North Somerset, has seen players like Luke Purnell, Dayle Grubb, Brad Ash and Ryan Jones break into the first team.

In fact Grubb and Jones, now at Bristol Rovers, have both been named as the bursary scheme, to give players - who might not be able to access their academy due to finances - the chance to apply for one of the places in their academy.

“Our Academy has the best facilities and pathway to semi-professional football in the area and it is our aim, as a recruitment team, to make Weston AFC the club all local young footballers want to play for,” White told the club’s website.

Panes added: “With the Academy, we provide the perfect player pathway from the Foundation Phase through to the Development Phase and finally onto the Senior Phase with our football/education full-time programme in partnership with Weston College. We cater for all.”