One of only 13 Regional Talent Clubs to carry Tier 1 status, Sunderland RTC is run by the Foundation of Light and supported by Durham County Football Association.
The RTC is recognised as one of the best in the country based on a number of factors including facilities, quality of coaching, education and coach and player development.
Players take part in a comprehensive training programme covering all areas and concepts of football, with teams taking part in the RTC Tier 1 North League against elite clubs including Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United.
The RTC has helped establish talents such England stars Steph Houghton and Jill Scott, as well as current Sunderland Ladies players Bridget Galloway and Keira Ramshaw to name a few.
NEW: Sunderland Girls’ Regional Talent Club update on trials for 2020-21
The global COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in major disruption to many sport programmes and the Sunderland Girls’ Regional Talent Centre has been no exception. For the 2020-21 season there will be trials held only for the under-10 age group. Whilst this may be disappointing news to those players wishing to trial at older age groups, the decision has been made to retain existing players as they had last season badly affected by both an exceptionally rainy Autumn period and then ended early due to national lockdown protocols. The decision has been made to retain all registered players to provide them with the FA RTC experience that they have missed out on.
To register for a place on the under-10 trials for 20-21 season email jack.gray@foundationoflight.co.uk
Players eligible for U12, U14 and U16 teams that are interested in developing their football are recommended to apply for the Foundation of Light Player Development Squad.
This programme is aimed for talented players wanting higher level of coaching and remaining with their grassroots club.
For further information on the Player Development Squad email jack.gray@foundationoflight.co.uk
Sponsors
To find out more about the Sunderland & Gateshead Regional Talent Club, email wayne.walls@foundationoflight.co.uk or call 0191 5634777.
When I was younger I was the only girl of my age playing football and it often became a bit competitive. Playing alongside girls at SAFC's Centre of Excellence not only helped me develop as a player but also as an individual too.
