Notts County FC Academy Dan Leivers receives significant funding boost after promotion

Notts County FC Academy Manager, Dan Leivers, has expressed his elation over the team's recent promotion, describing it as a "really emotional and happy experience" achieved via a penalty shoot-out victory.

Discussing the implications of the promotion, Leivers underscored the significant impact it would have on the academy, transitioning from the National League Youth Alliance to repositioning back in the EFL.

The most considerable ramification, Leivers pointed out, is the increase in funds they would receive. "The largest benefit, particularly from an academy perspective, is the funding," he clarified.

"This year we have been operating devoid of any support from any leagues, the Premier League or the FA. We will now receive the Football League Cat 3 grant for this year, providing a significant sum of money which will aid us in hiring new staff, improving facilities and procuring new equipment - all of these factors will significantly enhance the players' experiences this year."

Discussing staff changes resulting from the promotion, Leivers highlighted new positions that would need to be created. "Reverting back to Cat 3 level brings with it a lot of mandatory positions," he continued. "Despite the fact we have been operating close to Cat 3 level with the staff already on our books, there are key positions we now need to fill - including roles relating to education, player care and part-time coaching."

Reflecting on the previous season where several teams were operated under the academy, Leivers confidently asserted that it was a successful move, providing a platform for young players to perform. He exclaimed, "I believe we've had as many as 17 different players train with the first team this year, which is fantastic." With the transition to Cat 3 in the EFL this year, an under-21s team will feature in the EFL Central League, while the under-18s will compete in the EFL Youth Alliance.

The promotion's ripple effect extends to new contracts for players, said Leivers, explaining that, "Every single one of our players aged 9 to 16 will now be sheltered by the rules of EFL." He continued, "They'll presently be undergoing a process to sign their forms and officially become EFL Academy players." In addition to this, half a dozen players from the under-16s will advance to scholarships and earn their stripes as paid apprentices within the team.

Regarding training, Leivers noted that the regimen would not change drastically from what it was this year, with operations at their training ground at Clifton remaining almost on par. He did mention that the only adjustments might occur on match days depending on the opponent and potential required travel.

Leivers confirmed continuing their matches and training at Clifton and talked about ongoing efforts to upgrade their facilities. He extended a hearty welcome to fans, acknowledging their supportive presence throughout the past season.

Just over a year into his role, Leivers spoke enthusiastically of his tenure, saying, "Just the people that are here, working with the first team staff has been probably the easiest I've ever known. It's an extraordinary group of people, and we eagerly anticipate how things will progress."

With a future back in the EFL, Leivers and his team at Notts County FC Academy are anticipating the fresh opportunities and resources that come with the turf, and are looking forward to nurturing young talent for the club.

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