Procision Newbury Football Academy, in partnership with Newbury College, recently took 52 players aged 16 to 19 to the prestigious Kempen Trophy in Lommel, Belgium, held from 18 to 19 May 2024. This international youth football tournament featured teams from Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and France competing across various age categories.
The event began with the group stages on Day 1, determining the rankings for the final matches on Day 2. The U19 Blacks team finished top of their group without conceding a goal. The U19 Whites team finished second after a contentious final group game. The U17 Reds also topped their group.
On Day 2, the U19 Blacks and Whites faced each other in a semi-final, with the Blacks emerging victorious. The Blacks proceeded to win the final 3-0 against V.V. Helpman, claiming the championship title. Meanwhile, the Whites secured a commendable 4th place after a close match with G.J. C.O.M from France. The U17 Reds showcased their prowess with a 7-0 semi-final victory against US Auberchicourt and won the final 2-0 against SC Westfalia Herne, bringing home another trophy for Newbury.
Individual accolades were awarded to standout players Kwesi Robinson, Archie Goode, Sanjay Samuda, and Zak Rota, as recognised by their peers. The coaching staff highlighted the significant contributions of Theo Goodall, Louis Bissessur, and Liam Cusack, each receiving the player of the tour award for their respective teams.
The Kempen Trophy, established in 1994, is renowned for its high-level competition and excellent facilities at Kattenbos and Neerpelt, offering a fantastic opportunity for young players to gain international experience in a vibrant, competitive environment (Euro-Sportring) (FootballTournaments) (Euro-Sportring).
Procision Newbury Football Academy collaborates closely with Newbury College to deliver a comprehensive football programme that balances academic studies and practical training. This partnership ensures that players receive high-quality coaching alongside their education, allowing them to pursue various career pathways within the football and fitness industries.
The academy's programme includes regular fixtures against other academy-level teams, participation in prestigious tournaments such as the Kempen Trophy, and opportunities to progress to higher levels of play. Additionally, the partnership offers a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Sport and Exercise Science (Coaching Science) through University Centre Newbury, further supporting students' career development.
For players currently in Year 11 or 12 interested in joining the full-time academy next year, please visit newbury-college.ac.uk/football