The Albion Foundation's Post-16 Football Programme is designed to engage young football enthusiasts while prioritizing their education. This initiative, in partnership with local schools and colleges, offers a comprehensive package that includes football coaching and academic support. The programme aims to create pathways for students to transition into professional football or coaching roles, with the aim to convert a 'participant' into a member of staff through the Post-16 Pathway.
Spotlight on Reece Jones
Reece Jones joined the Sandwell College Programme in May 2023 and quickly became a standout participant. Known for his dedication and eagerness to learn, Reece has consistently impressed his coaches. He first caught the attention of The Albion Foundation during MJPL Sessions at the under-14 level, showcasing his agility and ball control.
Reece's commitment to learning and setting high standards marked him as a potential future coach. The Foundation signed him up as a volunteer, where he gained valuable experience working with young children in pre-academy sessions. These challenging sessions helped him develop confidence and coaching skills. “Reece has really showed his ability in pre-season 2023. We recognized early on that he would be an ideal candidate for coaching, and he has proven this!” said Liam, Sandwell College’s lead coach.
Commitment and Versatility
For the past three years, Reece has been a regular volunteer with The Albion Foundation, all while studying full-time on the Post-16 Programme. He has shown remarkable versatility, comfortably interacting with the public, leading fan zone stations, and guiding smaller groups in PDA/PDC sessions. His ability to share his football knowledge effectively has made him a valued member of the team. Balancing his full-time studies with volunteering, Reece consistently seeks to understand coaching techniques and outcomes.
Reece expressed his gratitude, saying, “I can’t thank WBA and Sandwell College enough for their support. I’m enjoying the volunteering work and transitioning into coaching, and I feel well-supported in achieving my goals.”
The Path Ahead
Reece’s journey with The Albion Foundation highlights the impact of the Post-16 Programme. As he continues his studies and coaching development, he sets an example for other young players. His next steps include obtaining a Level 1 coaching qualification and taking on more technical coaching roles. The Foundation remains committed to supporting Reece and others like him, helping them achieve their full potential both on and off the field.