Are you 16 to 18 years of age and want to play full time football for Chelmsford City FC? Then you could be what the Clarets’ partnership with Chelmsford College is looking for…

A football and coaching programme between the College and the Football Club began in August 2011, with over 40 players. The scheme is due to expand in 2012 and is likely to become the most popular and successful of its kind in the Country.

SOCA (Soccer Opportunities and Coaching Academy) aims to attract talented young footballers and coaches, giving them a chance to develop their talent at recognised clubs and organisations whilst also gaining top coaching and educational qualifications.

SOCA have created the perfect environment where all their students can choose a profession in coaching by achieving the relevant qualifications and, at the same time, furthering their playing careers at semi-professional level.

With the guidance of highly qualified coaching staff, including former professional players, academy coaches and FA tutors, SOCA like to think their students have every chance of playing or coaching at a high level - representing the County, England Schools or even going all the way to becoming a professional player or coach.

Former West Ham United legend Stuart Slater has been involved as a key member of the player and coaching development staff from the start. He said: “SOCA provides young footballers and coaches with the opportunity to develop their skills and showcase their talent. It’s my aim to help and support them, providing the best education, training, football networks and sporting facilities to help them realise their full potential.”

The teams play competitive league games in the Football Conference Youth Alliance and they’re also tested in a number of prestigious friendly matches against sides like West Ham, Ipswich Town, Reading, Watford, Leyton Orient, Colchester United and Southend United. This programme allows students to see further employment in the sports industry and also enables them to play at a respectable semi-professional level.

The courses for 2011/12 include:

Level 2 Qualification: BTEC Diploma in Sport (Football Studies)

o         studying three mornings per week

o         training three afternoons

o         playing every Wednesday afternoon

Level 3 Qualification: BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport - Performance and Excellence (Football Studies)

o         studying five mornings per week

o         training three afternoons

o         playing every Wednesday afternoon

These BTEC Qualifications give boys and girls the chance to play full time football and study for a sports qualification.

Apprenticeship - Activity Leadership (Coaching) NVQ Level 2: 12 Months

Apprenticeship - Sports Development (Coaching) NVQ Level 3: 18 Months

These apprenticeships give boys and girls the opportunity to play full time football, gain practical work experience and an industry-led qualification whilst getting paid. If you would like to have the chance to be part of these exciting programmes, please call (01245) 293031 or E-Mail: information@chelmsford.ac.uk.