Elite Development Squad Launched
By Frazer FowlerAcademy Manager Matt Winter explains the Elite Development Squad and gives an insight into the programme.
Woking FC Academy is excited to announce the launch of its new Elite Development Squad (EDS) programme, set to begin in the 2025/26 season. In recent years, the Woking Football Academy has offered players a comprehensive 2-year full-time education and football pathway. The Elite Development Squad programme is an additional 1-year extension, designed for players from our second-year programme, as well as those who have been released from similar academy structures and have not secured a first-team professional contract. This initiative provides an opportunity for these players to continue their development through an extra year of full-time training, alongside studying an NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Skills for Business. The primary aim of this programme is to further enhance player development, offering more time in a professional football environment, with the ultimate goal of progressing these players into our First Team.
The Programme:
Non-Contract First Team status
Assigned First Team squad number
Opportunities to train alongside the First Team
Gain additional experience and development with the goal of progressing into the First Team
Represent Woking Football Club and compete at a high level against other football academies in the National League Academy South (U19s) and the Suburban Premier League (Open Age).
Train 2-3 times a week, including stength and conditioning sessions in a gym facility
Opportunity for players to go out on loan and gain Men's First Team experience within the non-league pyramid (dual registration).
Earn an NCFE qualification that provides UCAS points, opening pathways to further education and future career opportunities.
Reduced education hours from 1st and 2nd year programme (10 hours per week).
Dedicated social media coverage of fixtures.
To register your interest please complete the trial request form on the Elite Development Squad page under the Academy Tab above.