Stamford College Football Academy Celebrates 10 Year Milestone With Expanded Squads and New Women’s Programme

Stamford Football Academy is proudly celebrating its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of player development, technical coaching and youth progression. 

Founded in September 2016, what began as a modest setup, has now expanded into three thriving men’s squads competing across regional youth divisions. This growth is capped by the official launch of the Stamford College Women’s Football Academy in 2025, delivering high-performance coaching, equal developmental pathways and competitions for female players across Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire and Rutland. 

The decade of success has been built on a long-standing partnership with Stamford AFC. Utilising the club’s top-tier facilities at Borderville Sports Centre, the collaboration provides a direct bridge between youth training and senior competitive football, with many students progressing into Stamford AFC First Team and Reserves.

Having led the Academy since its launch, Course Coordinator Justin Osbourne said, “Reaching our 10-year anniversary is a massive milestone for our entire coaching staff, players, and supportive families. Growing into three competitive squads and launching our new Women’s Football Academy shows how far we’ve come, and we look forward to driving the next decade of local football excellence across the region.”

Beyond performance on the pitch, the Academy places equal emphasis on academic success. All student-athletes work towards achieving a Level 3 Sport Qualification, providing them with essential knowledge in sports science, coaching and athlete development. To build real-world experience, students gain hands-on coaching practice by leading sporting activities for children across local Stamford primary schools. 

This balance between theory and practical application ensures players develop vital life skills and complete their courses with clear pathways for their career goals. Over the past 10 years, alumni have progressed straight into employment with Premier League Clubs, degree courses at Russell Group universities and Higher Level Sports Apprenticeships.  

Education at the Academy goes far beyond the classroom and the pitch. Over the last 10 years, players have enjoyed unforgettable experiences nationwide, from attending Champions League matches and visiting Premier League stadiums to a range of trips designed to build elite team culture. 

Ready to take the next step in your sporting career? If you are aiming to combine a Level 3 Sport Qualification with high-performance football training and practical coaching development, head down to our next Stamford College Open Evening to meet the coaches and explore your options!