Description
Are you passionate about football and dreaming of a future in the sports industry? The GTFC Football Shadow Scholarship 2025 offers an unparalleled opportunity to combine high-quality football training with full-time education, setting students on the path to success both on and off the pitch. Delivered in collaboration with Grimsby Town Sports and Education Trust and Franklin Sixth Form College in UK, this programme caters to young footballers looking to excel in the game or pursue sports-related careers.
Let’s explore how this unique experience can help you kickstart your football journey and build a brighter future.
Progression and Success Stories
Since its inception, the GTFC Shadow Scholarship has achieved outstanding success:
- Twelve U19 National League and Cup Futsal Titles
- Two Regional U19 Football League Championships
- Over 115 graduates since 2014
- 100% university admission rate for students securing their first-choice institutions
With these accomplishments, the programme offers a proven track record of guiding students toward long-term success.
Meet the Coaches
Expert coaches Scott Drury and Mark Westerby have led the scholarship to numerous victories. Their experience, dedication, and strategic approach ensure that each player receives personal mentorship to grow both on and off the field. Under their leadership, players have developed the skills necessary to compete at regional and national levels, preparing them for careers in professional football or sports education.
GTFC Girls U19 Football Shadow Scholarship: A New Beginning
Recognizing the rise in female football participation, 2024 saw the launch of the GTFC Girls U19 Shadow Scholarship. This initiative offers young women the chance to represent Grimsby Town’s women’s side while pursuing their academic goals.
The programme features:
- Elite Coaching tailored to individual goals
- CEFA League competitions against professional clubs
- A Level 3 Sports Study Programme covering anatomy, fitness, and sports leadership
“We are excited to expand the GTFC Football Shadow Scholarship for female players. With the growing success of the Lionesses, we see a surge in young female talent, and this is the perfect time to foster that potential,” said Scott Drury.
Degree Level
Franklin Sixth Form College UK GTFC Football Shadow Scholarship 2025 is available to undertake Undergraduate level programs at Franklin Sixth Form College.
Available Subjects
The GTFC U19 Shadow Scholarship is crafted for talented 16-year-olds with a passion for football and aspirations to study sports science or pursue careers in sports management, coaching, or fitness industries. This programme offers:
- Professional football training sessions held three times per week
- Comprehensive strength and conditioning programmes
- Opportunities to represent Grimsby Town’s U19 Shadow Team in the EFL Community & Education Football Alliance (CEFA)
Alongside world-class football training, students will work towards a Level 3 BTEC Sports qualification at Franklin Sixth Form College. The curriculum covers critical areas such as:
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Fitness Training and Programming
- Professional Development in Sports
- Sports Leadership and Coaching Techniques
By balancing football excellence with education, students build skills that open doors to university admissions, sports-related jobs, and professional football pathways.
Benefits
Benefits of Joining the GTFC Football Shadow Scholarship
- Professional Training: Hone your football skills with three to four training sessions per week.
- Competitive Matches: Play in national leagues and compete against other clubs in the CEFA.
- Education Pathways: Earn a Level 3 BTEC Sports Qualification to prepare for university or employment in the sports industry.
- Experienced Coaching: Train under expert coaches with a track record of success.
- Clear Career Progression: Opportunities to pursue university education or professional football careers.
Eligible Nationalities
This scholarship is open for students of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for the GTFC Football Shadow Scholarship 2025 are as follows:
- Age Requirement: The program is aimed at talented football players between 16 to 18 years old.
- Football Talent: Applicants must demonstrate exceptional football ability and passion for the sport.
- Academic and Athletic Commitment: Students should show a commitment to both academic growth and athletic development, balancing football training with education.
- Education Component: Participants will pursue a Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport (equivalent to three A-Levels) alongside their training.
- Training Sessions and Competitions: Scholars will train three to four times a week and compete in the EFL Community & Education Football Alliance (CEFA) against other U19 shadow squads from professional clubs.
The program provides comprehensive support, including elite coaching, personalized study plans, and access to both Franklin Sixth Form College and Blundell Park, the home of Grimsby Town Football Club. It opens pathways for students to either pursue professional football careers, further studies in sports, or employment in the sports industry.
Application Procedure
Take the first step toward a career in football or sports education with the GTFC Football Shadow Scholarship. Whether you dream of playing professionally or want to pursue higher education in sports, this programme is your gateway to success.
Apply Today
Secure your spot by applying now through the official Franklin Sixth Form College portal. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to turn your passion into a career!