Club Statement: Youth Academy

The Board of Clyde FC has recently concluded a review of the SFA Club Academy Scotland (CAS) model for youth development, and its relevance to the country’s community clubs. Clyde FC enters teams at Under-11, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 17 into this structure.

With decreasing grant funding coming from the SFA for community clubs, the significant resources required to comply with CAS participation, and the governing body’s commitment to elite player development, Clyde FC has reluctantly concluded that the finance and resources necessary to operate within the CAS model cannot be sustained while it occupies the lower tiers of the Scottish game.

As a result, the club has reluctantly concluded that it will not participate in competitive youth football, within Club Academy Scotland, next season and has advised the SFA accordingly.

The Board would like to thank the entire Clyde Academy staff who have supported our youth operation in recent years, some of whom will have the opportunity to engage in the club’s community plans going forward.

Parents of all youth academy players are currently being informed of the decision, and being advised that the boys are free to find new clubs ahead of their contract expiry on 30th June 2015.  Clyde FC has also agreed to assist with this process.

Meanwhile, the club is keen to support and enhance its community activities and is reviewing how best this can be achieved.

Our Under-20 side, which is not part of Club Academy Scotland, remains in place as part of our first team structure