Sunderland AFC continue to develop and nurture the fantastic talent that our Under-18s and Under-21s have on the field and are also committed to developing the Lads off the field.
Both age groups attended a Careers Fair last week, arranged, and hosted by the club and the Foundation of Light to consider their wider talents and interests and life outside of the game.
The day began with talks from various businesses and career opportunities, such as Ollie Shannon from Vertex, who spoke to the boys about scholarship opportunities in America.
The lads then had an opportunity to network with different stall holders at the Beacon of Light with Loughborough University, Northumbria Police, Seriös Group and Lookers in attendance to name a few.
We'd like to thank everyone who attended last week!
Academy Player Care Lead, Evie Innes added: "The Lads are fully focused and dedicated to their football, but it’s important that as an Academy we prepare them for their independence and next steps.
"Whether that’s the pathway at Sunderland AFC, a career in the game elsewhere or something completely different in the future.
"We’re trying to broaden what the Lads see as success for their future and really nurture their alternative interests. We have some great examples in the first team here at SAFC of players who have additional qualifications or their own businesses alongside their success in football.
"The Careers Fair, I hope, has encouraged the U18 & U21 boys to be open to this. A big thank you to all the businesses, further education provisions and guests who attended and participated in the day!"