Sorry Gings but fact they are still training has nothing to do with whether they are becoming more club-like or not. They train 42-44 weeks a year because that's what academies the world over do. In fact, clubs are moving towards a more academy-like approach: Coastal Spirt, FC 20, Technical Cashmere no doubt.
This is good because players & parents will have more choice and will vote with their feet: go to the local club academy (cheaper & more convenient) or go to a centralised one if you think it is worth the extra hard-earned.
I reckon Mainland Academy will exist only as long as the clubs fail to offer an alternative.
WOF pyramid plan has a Talent ID/Perform/Excel pathway for the top group of players. As a footballing nation we need to be developing the top few % as well as broadening the base and improving the quality of delivery throughout.
What's more important? Developing a good player or having that player play in my club strip v your club strip?
Sorry Gings but fact they are still training has nothing to do with whether they are becoming more club-like or not. They train 42-44 weeks a year because that's what academies the world over do. In fact, clubs are moving towards a more academy-like approach: Coastal Spirt, FC 20, Technical Cashmere no doubt.
This is good because players & parents will have more choice and will vote with their feet: go to the local club academy (cheaper & more convenient) or go to a centralised one if you think it is worth the extra hard-earned.
I reckon Mainland Academy will exist only as long as the clubs fail to offer an alternative.
WOF pyramid plan has a Talent ID/Perform/Excel pathway for the top group of players. As a footballing nation we need to be developing the top few % as well as broadening the base and improving the quality of delivery throughout.
What's more important? Developing a good player or having that player play in my club strip v your club strip?