Neilston Football Club Youth Academy began in 2015, when a couple of parents started a team for their children. Today it's more than 220 young players and 50 volunteer coaches across ten age groups.
Since 2015, the academy has been organised and run entirely by volunteer coaches as a non-profit club. We're self-funded, so we rely very much on the goodwill of the local community we serve.
We aim to get more boys and girls in Neilston, Barrhead and the surrounding areas playing football, to improve their fitness and health, and to give them a safe place to develop their football, self-esteem and friendships.
We have an open door policy: membership is available to anyone, irrespective of race, colour, religion, sex, sexuality or disability. We promote respect for diversity and encourage everyone to take pride in themselves and their teammates.
To help children and adults have fun and develop football skills in line with the Scottish FA's National Player Pathway, and to develop their character and life skills, no matter their age, gender, religion or ability.
To provide a safe and welcoming environment at community level for all who want to take part in football.
We want your child to enjoy the game while they learn and develop. A happy player is more likely to be a confident player, and more likely to reach their potential.
We develop football skills alongside the character-building life skills that go with them.
Effort and determination lead to sporting success. Hard work beats quality when quality isn't trying.
We aim to play a skilful, passing and moving style of football.
Everyone at the club is asked to show three behaviours: responsibility, communication and leading by example.
Mark Duncan
George Thompson
Andy Whiteford
George Thompson
The academy is affiliated to the Scottish Youth Football Association, and every team is registered with the SYFA. Questions for the committee can go to info@neilstonfcyouth.com.
Find your child's team and email the coaches to arrange a trial session.