New programme to help talented players aged 5-11 to maximise their potential

The PDC is a partnership between Chester FC Community Trust and Chester FC Academy that will provide increased opportunities for talented players to train in a professional environment designed to help them reach their potential.

Players continue to train and play for their grassroots clubs with the PDC offering them additional coaching from experienced coaches in line with The FA’s four corner model and Chester FC Academy’s development principles.

There will be opportunities to take part in fixtures with other PDCs and for players who display exceptional ability the PDC will provide a pathway into the Chester FC Academy.

Jim Green, chief executive of the Chester FC Community Trust, said: “The PDC programme aims to give players the best coaching and environment to help them realise their full potential.

“It provides opportunities for talented players to develop and improve with Chester FC coaches, and establishes a pathway for those players excelling for their grassroots clubs to be monitored with a view to progressing into the Chester FC Academy.

“We are committed to working with grassroots leagues and clubs so the PDC will have no impact on existing club commitments and we believe it will help further improve the standard of junior football in Chester.”

The PDC will be based at Chester Catholic High School with sessions taking place on Friday evenings from 5pm to 6pm for Years 1 & 2, and 6pm to 7pm for Years 3 & 4 and Years 5 & 6.

Assessment sessions will be held on Friday, November 11 and Friday, November 18.

In order to attend prospective players can download and complete a registration form and return via email to community@chesterfc.com. Prospective players can register now and will be invited to attend an assessment session.

Those successful at the assessment stage will be invited to the PDC to take part in a 12-week programme designed to develop player’s fundamental skills, technical ability and tactical understanding.

The PDC works closely with Chester FC Academy, enabling coaches to identify and monitor talented players and creating a pathway for exceptional players to progress. There will be the opportunity for development fixtures against other PDCs and touring teams.

For more information on the Chester FC PDC email community@chesterfc.com or call 07512 355396.