I am thrilled to share the incredible progress we've made over the summer. Our mission to inspire and support young people through football continues to gain momentum, and this summer has been nothing short of remarkable.
This summer, we’ve seen tremendous growth and achievement across all aspects of our academy. From expanding our programs and enhancing our facilities to welcoming new talent into our ranks, every step we've taken has been with a singular focus: to create an environment where young people can thrive, both on and off the pitch.
One of the most exciting developments has been the expansion of our training programs. We’ve introduced new sessions tailored to different skill levels, ensuring that every player, regardless of their starting point, has the opportunity to develop and grow. Our summer camps were a particular highlight, with record participation and an atmosphere of energy and enthusiasm that was truly inspiring. The feedback from players and parents alike has been overwhelmingly positive, affirming that we’re on the right track in providing valuable experiences that leave a lasting impact.
In our commitment to providing the best possible environment for our players, we’ve also made significant upgrades to our facilities. These improvements are more than just cosmetic; they’re an investment in the future of our academy and the young athletes who train here. From state-of-the-art equipment to revamped training grounds, every enhancement is designed to help our players perform at their best and enjoy their time with us even more.
This summer, we’ve also been fortunate to bring new talent into our academy, both on the coaching staff and in our player rosters. Our coaches, who bring fresh perspectives and a wealth of experience, have already begun making a profound impact on our programs. Meanwhile, the influx of new players has infused our teams with renewed energy and passion, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
Summer Camps: A Record-Breaking Success
This year, our summer camps saw hundreds of kids from all over Glasgow coming together to learn, grow, and have fun. The energy and enthusiasm from the young players were truly inspiring. Each camp was filled with not only skill development but also the values of teamwork, discipline, and respect.
Our remarkable team worked for six weeks, day to day in the Glasgow summer which saw snow, hail, sun and wind throughout to support kids of all abilities on their footballing journey; we worked at Scotstoun and Palace of Arts with a whole host of kids of varied abilities.
Futsal
We're excited to announce that our futsal sessions are expanding this season, with training now available both midweek and on weekends. This change is all about making futsal more accessible, allowing more players to join in and benefit from this fast-paced, skill-focused sport.
Futsal’s small-sided format and emphasis on quick thinking make it a perfect complement to traditional football. The game’s high tempo and tight spaces force players to develop close ball control, quick decision-making, and tactical awareness—all of which translate directly to the full-pitch game.
With sessions now available throughout the week, there's greater flexibility to fit training into your schedule. Whether you’re looking to refine your skills, get competitive, or simply enjoy the game, these additional sessions provide the perfect platform to take your abilities to the next level.
Growing Our 11-a-Side Teams
Our commitment to providing pathways for young players to develop has also led us to expand our 11-a-side teams. We are thrilled to announce that we have added a third team, allowing more players to experience the full benefits of competitive football.
The addition of a third 11-a-side team is a significant step forward in providing more players with the opportunity to experience the full benefits of competitive football. This expansion allows us to offer a greater number of young athletes the chance to participate in high-level matches, hone their skills, and grow within a structured and supportive environment.
This expansion is more than just adding another team; it's about creating a clear pathway for players aspiring to reach the highest levels of the sport. By increasing the number of competitive opportunities, we’re opening doors for more players to develop the skills, mindset, and experience necessary to pursue a professional football career.
Our coaching staff, which includes UEFA A-licensed professionals, is dedicated to nurturing talent and providing the guidance needed to progress through the ranks—from academy levels to potentially joining professional clubs. Each player will have the chance to demonstrate their abilities in competitive matches, gaining exposure and experience that are crucial for making the leap to the next level.
Commitment to Staff Development
At the heart of our academy’s success is the dedication and expertise of our staff. We firmly believe that the strength of our programs comes from the passion, knowledge, and continuous growth of our coaches and support team. That’s why we are deeply committed to their ongoing development.
We recognize that to provide the highest standard of training and mentorship to our young players, our staff must be at the forefront of the latest developments in football coaching, sports science, and player welfare. To achieve this, we invest heavily in their professional development.
Whether it’s through advanced coaching certifications, workshops, or specialized training in new techniques and technologies, we ensure that our staff are always equipped with the best tools to guide our players. This commitment means that our coaches are not only well-versed in the latest methodologies but are also able to adapt and innovate, providing a dynamic and effective learning environment.
For our young athletes, this translates into a richer, more comprehensive training experience. Our coaches bring cutting-edge insights and a deep understanding of the game, ensuring that every player receives individualized attention tailored to their needs and goals. This dedication to excellence helps foster an environment where players can thrive, develop their skills to the fullest, and gain the confidence to pursue their football ambitions, whether that’s moving up the ranks within the academy or aspiring to a professional career.
By prioritizing the ongoing development of our staff, we’re not just investing in their futures—we’re investing in the future of every player who comes through our academy. This commitment to continuous improvement creates a culture of growth and excellence that permeates everything we do, ensuring that our programs remain at the cutting edge of football training.
A Vision for a Brighter Future
As we continue to grow, our vision for the future becomes even clearer. We are more determined than ever to secure our own home—a dedicated space where we can deliver our programmes and foster the next generation of footballers. Having a permanent base will enable us to provide even better facilities and opportunities for all our players and families.
Securing this home is not just a dream; it’s a strategic priority. We are actively exploring options and seeking support from partners who share our vision of empowering young people through sport. This is a crucial step in our journey, and we are committed to making it a reality.
Thank You for Your Support
None of this would be possible without the support of our dedicated team, our amazing volunteers, and the incredible community that surrounds us. Your belief in our mission drives us forward, and together, we are building something truly special.
As we look ahead, we are excited about the possibilities and the impact we can make. On the Ball Academy is more than just a football academy—it’s a movement for positive change, and we are just getting started.
Ryan Docherty
CEO, On the Ball Academy
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