Academy trials off to a flyer

Aspiring footballers between the ages of five and 12 are invited to trials for West Ham United's world-renowned Academy.

West Ham United Community Sports Trust is on the lookout for a future star and had a fantastic response to the first of five trial dates throughout east London and Essex this summer.  

In excess of 60 children turned out at St Clere's School, Romford, on Friday 1 August, seven of whom were selected to train with Academy Development Centres and are now in contention for an Academy place.

Four trial dates remain, with youngsters competing at under-six level all the way up to under-12s eligible to take part. Please note that age groups are defined as of the 2014/15 season, so beginning on 1 September 2014 and ending on 31 August 2015.

The forthcoming trial dates and venues are as follows:

Friday 8 August - Harlow and Epping
Shooters Football, Rayley Lane, Weald Bassett, Epping, Essex, CM16 6AR

Friday 15 August - Romford
Play Football, King George Playing Fields, Eastern Avenue West, Romford, Essex, RM7 7AY

Friday 22 August - Newham
West Ham United Community Sports Trust, 60a Albatross Close, off Woolwich Manor Way, London, E6 5NX

Friday 29 August - Colchester
Thomas Lord Audley School, Monkwick Avenue, Monkwick, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8NJ

Each age group will participate at different times throughout the day, playing small-sided matches and competing in specific 'football technique testing sessions.'

Youngsters who are thought to have the ability to join the Hammers will be invited to trial at West Ham United's Chadwell Heath training ground.

Participants are asked to complete the application form here and then send it on to Academy integration officer Michael Ward, via email at [email protected] or in the post to 60a, Albatross Close, off Woolwich Manor Way, London E6 5NX.