(Image: @BPAFCOfficial)
Bradford (Park Avenue) are offering released young footballers a fresh route back into the game.
The club has launched Your Chance, a development programme for talented players who need an opportunity to fulfil their potential.
It is aimed at players whose journeys have taken different paths and a taster event will be held at Horsfall next Friday (October 30).
Some have been released by professional academies, while others have not yet had the chance to show their ability in a professional environment.
Avenue say a setback, rejection or missed opportunity should not decide a player’s future.
The programme will offer coaching from UEFA A Licensed Coaches.
There will also be development plans and support for opportunities within football, education and employment.
Two programmes will be available, with both fully funded, at no cost to those joining up.
Your Chance Under-16 is for about 17 to 20 players, including those released from professional academies and those hoping to reach academy level.
Players will receive structured coaching on Monday evenings, individual development plans and a programme of competitive matches.
Sessions will focus on technical, tactical, physical and personal development.
Your Chance U19 is for up to 20 unsigned players, particularly those released by professional clubs.
It will follow a professional-style programme, with daytime training on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
Players will also receive individual planning, performance support and a bespoke games programme.
The club will help players work towards returning to professional football, progressing into Bradford (Park Avenue)’s first team or finding paid opportunities in non-league football.
Players may also combine football with higher education at a UK university, or explore football and education opportunities through colleges in the United States.
Alternative education, training and employment options will be supported where appropriate.
Academy director Craig Large, who will also be head coach, will lead the programme.
Coaching will be supported by individual assessments, development plans and regular performance reviews.
The club plans to introduce performance analysis, video feedback and physical monitoring as the relevant provision becomes operational.
Avenue say the success of the programme will not be judged only by the number of players who earn professional contracts.
It will also be measured through players’ development, the standards they set, the opportunities they create and their readiness for their next stage.
The aim is for players to leave Your Chance with improved technical, tactical, physical and personal skills, as well as a clearer understanding of their potential and available opportunities.