The Fulham brand is expanding. The Higher Sports Academy is an exciting new partnership which the Club has entered to give a pathway for younger players to study and play in Spain with external links to the UK. The two share the same values in holistically developing players with a direct pathway into football with a fall-back option.
This, along with Spanish Professional Football will be a key partner in the management and delivery of our International Player Development Programme.
The Academy work closely with players to tailor a programme to suit them in which they can study and play to their potential in tandem among some of the best facilities in Spain. The Mas Camarena sports facility combines leisure with hard-work as a feeder into lower La Liga and semi-pro Clubs.
Spanish winger, Nicolas Santos-Clase, was quick to highlight the importance of International Partnerships.
“I think that having a relationship with a Spanish Association along with UK links is very important. You can look at bringing a different type of player to one country and vice versa. The Spanish way of playing is one of intricacy. Seven years ago, the National team were winning everything.
“I love English football as well. I think England diversify their opportunities well and I’m used to their academies and way of playing so it’s good to have a hybrid of both.
“The fact this Academy modify programmes is excellent. Every player is different and needs to work at different levels to achieve their targets. The future is bright if they can meet specific needs.”
Academy Director, Huw Jennings, added: “The Fulham FC Academy has a truly diverse playing base. We pride ourselves on the international dimension to our Academy. This exciting brand-new initiative will give players an excellent experience and insight into the Fulham Academy way in a great location with superb facilities and an excellent education programme.”