Youngsters are being given the chance to experience life as a professional footballer thanks to the AFC Fylde Community Foundation.

Working in partnership with Cuadrilla and Centrica, the Foundation has launched a unique project for local children.

‘Train Like A Pro’ is a bespoke football development programme which was launched at Mill Farm during the recent home game against Altrincham.

It focuses on working with 12 local grassroots teams from across the Fylde Coast and as far afield as Preston, providing a unique opportunity for children to participate in a football training course at a professional standard.

The programme is unlike any regular football camp as is centred directly around how professionals train. Participants not only learn new football skills and enhance their knowledge of the game, but are also educated on the importance of good health, nutrition and physiotherapy to support and improve performance. 

The Foundation, Cuadrilla UK and Centrica officially hosted the grand launch of ‘Train Like A Pro’ programme at Mill Farm when more than 40 children and coaches from grassroots teams were invited to the ground for an unforgettable day.

Foundation Director Tom Hutton was thrilled with the success of the grand launch and the positive reception to the innovative programme. He said: “It was a fantastic day – it could not have gone any better.

“The programme provides a great opportunity for children to become involved in sport and get a real taste for the commitment and hard work involved in becoming a professional footballer. Train Like a Pro is something I’m really proud the Foundation can offer and it would not be possible without the generous support of Cuadrilla and Centrica.”

For more information and news stories please visit www.afcfyldefoundation.co.uk or keep up to date with all of our updates on twitter @afcfct.