Link-up with the Strachans gives Hibs solid Foundation

Club representatives met with founders Gordon and Gavin Strachan on Saturday for the launch of the SFF apprenticeship programme and have agreed an arrangement that enables SFF apprentices to work within the club and local schools to develop their skills and benefit the community.

Gordon Strachan interrupted a holiday in Spain to attend the launch and conduct a training session with the potential recruits and was delighted with the 31 players, aged 16 to 19, on show.

SFF, with support from Heart Of England Training and through clubs like Hibs, will provide apprentices the opportunity to train like a professional and work towards a range of football and sports coaching qualifications.

The squad of 20 apprentices will receive two hours football coaching four days a week from SFF coaches and guest coaches who have years of experience within professional football and the Premier League.

An individual development plan ensures players experience how the football industry operates, website and social media maintenance, writing match reports, sports development, sports coaching, refereeing competitive small-sided games and taking part in community sport- related events.

On graduation, apprentices will have access to the Strachan network of associates to progress towards a paid playing career or further coaching scholarships in the United States.

Hibs chairman Kieran Barry is delighted at the potential prospects brought by the SFF apprenticeship link. “A 30-team grassroots club needs 60-plus voluntary managers/coaches or assistants to run effectively, develop our club members and continue to provide value for money,” he said.

“The SFF link will enable the club to channel additional resources to those parts of the club that need it most in addition to providing opportunities for homegrown talent to progress towards a career in football.”