Starting in September 2014, the NPL Football Academy is a very exciting new venture with the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League looking to give aspiring footballers the chance to take the first step on the ladder in the world of football.

The aim is to give the academy team a robust educational package comprising a BTEC in Sport which ultimately, if they achieve well could give them a gateway into university or further education in some capacity.

The concept is that the boys would enjoy a fantastic footballing experience of training and learning the day to day reality of football at the club, whilst competing in prestigious competitions like the FA Youth Cup and the Evo-Stik Northern Premier Academy League.

On the back of the football aspect, the educational package leads them through a variety of BTEC units and work experience options that would open many doors for them in the future as well as gaining their FA Level 1 & Level 2 Football Coaching Badges, FA Refereeing Badge and FA Mentoring over the course of the two year programme with opportunities to gain scholarships or coaching positions in America, Spain and Australia as well as the chance to become a semi-professional footballer.

The programme has received the backing of leading current and former footballs such as Paul Scholes, Joe Royle and Craig Dawson.

Club's taking part in the pilot year include Mickleover Sports, Romulus, Radcliffe Borough, Witton Albion, Burscough, Mossley and Leek Town.

There is an Open Evening on Wednesday 3rd September, 7pm at the ground for anyone who is interested in joining the programme and playing for Belper Town FC.

To register your place you can contact info@nplfa.co.uk but hurry as places are limited.

You can also follow the NPLFA on social media at:-

www.twitter.com/NPLFA
www.facebook.com/NPLFootballAcademy
www.instagram.com/NPLFA