Ballymena Utd Girls Academy opens doors to next generation of local football talent with free summer programme

Ballymena United Girls Academy is giving aspiring young footballers across the area the opportunity to take their game to the next level with the launch of a free four-week open training programme this summer.

The academy is inviting girls born in 2010 and 2011 to take part in a series of Under-16 open training sessions beginning this week at Ballymena Showgrounds.

Designed for players who are serious about developing their abilities and progressing within the game, the initiative aims to identify and nurture the next generation of local female football talent while providing a welcoming and supportive environment for young players to thrive.

Free four-week programme begins this Thursday

The programme gets underway on Thursday, July 2, with sessions running every Thursday from 7pm to 8pm on the 3G pitch at Ballymena Showgrounds.

Participation is completely free, with the academy offering a four-week programme to give players the opportunity to experience the coaching environment and standards within the Ballymena United pathway.

The sessions are aimed specifically at committed girls born in 2010 or 2011 who are keen to develop their football skills and challenge themselves at a higher level.

Building confidence on and off the pitch

Alongside technical and tactical development, the academy says the programme will focus on helping players build confidence, grow as individuals and enjoy the social side of football.

Participants will have the opportunity to improve their game, make new friends and train within a positive and encouraging environment alongside other ambitious young players from across the local area.

The sessions will be led by experienced coaches who will work with players throughout the four-week programme, helping them develop both individually and as part of a team.

A pathway into senior football

One of the key attractions of the initiative is the opportunity for players to become part of the wider Ballymena United Girls Academy structure.

The club says the programme forms part of a clear development pathway, allowing players to progress through the academy system and potentially move into the senior set-up in the future.

With the women’s game continuing to grow rapidly across Northern Ireland, opportunities for young players to access structured coaching and progression routes are becoming increasingly important for the future of the sport locally.

How to get involved

Girls born in 2010 or 2011 who would like to take part in the open training sessions are encouraged to register their interest as soon as possible.

The sessions begin on Thursday, July 2, at Ballymena Showgrounds 3G pitch and run from 7pm until 8pm as part of the free four-week programme.

Parents and players seeking further information or wishing to reserve a place can do so by messaging the Ballymena United F.C. Women & Academy Facebook page directly.

Ballymena Utd Women Facebook Page

The initiative represents another opportunity for young female footballers in the Ballymena area to access high-quality coaching, develop their skills and potentially begin a journey through one of the town’s established football pathways.