ABOUT AC8 ACADEMY
Harrogate’s No.1 football coaching academy
INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION OF FOOTBALLERS
Founded in 2019, AC8 Academy was created to inspire young players of all abilities to fall in love with the beautiful game. As a dedicated football coaching academy, we believe football should be accessible to everyone, regardless of background or experience.
Our goal is to provide the highest standards of professional youth football coaching in a fun, supportive environment.
MORE THAN JUST SKILLS TRAINING
At our football coaching academy, players don’t just develop technical skills, they also gain a deeper understanding of tactics, game phases and what it takes to succeed in the modern game. Our coaching model is designed by UEFA A Licensed Adam and aims to give every child the best football education, supported by values of respect, courage, trust, pride, and endeavour.
EXPERIENCED FOOTBALL COACHING TEAM
Led by Founder and Team Principal Adam Clayton, who brings a wealth of professional experience from Manchester City, Leeds United, Middlesbrough, and beyond, our team is passionate about creating a culture where hard work, teamwork and enjoyment go hand in hand.
More than just football
Join AC8 Academy today
WHY CHOOSE AC8 FOOTBALL ACADEMY
EXPERT COACHING,
REAL EXPERIENCE
Led by ex-pro Adam Clayton, our coaches deliver elite, enjoyable training for every young player.
MORE THAN JUST FOOTBALL
We build skill, confidence, and character - developing players on and off the pitch.
INCLUSIVE & INSPIRING COACHING
Open to all abilities, we make football fun, accessible, and full of opportunity for 5-15yr girls and boys.
DEVELOPING PLAYERS ON AND OFF THE PITCH
If you’re looking for a youth football academy that focuses on both personal and athletic development, AC8 Academy is the place to start.
We help young players grow their confidence, build lifelong friendships, and create memories that last well beyond the game.
JOIN AC8 FOOTBALL COACHING ACADEMY
Discover how far football can take you. Join AC8 Academy today and take the first step towards reaching your full potential with expert youth football coaching.
INTERESTED IN SPONSORSHIP?
We are always keen to hear from like-minded local businesses who share our values and want to support the development of young players. If you’re interested in sponsoring our academy or our kits, we’d love to talk about how we can work together.
“Working with Oxen has been an incredible experience. I wanted our players to wear a kit that feels elite, something that reflects the standards and energy we live by at AC8. The Oxen team have been brilliant from start to finish, helping turn our ideas into a kit we’re genuinely proud of.”
Adam Clayton
Founder & Team Principal, AC8 Academy
OUR KIT PARTNER: OXEN SPORTS
We’re proud to partner with Oxen Sports, a respected Yorkshire-based sportswear brand with a strong reputation across the sporting world. By working with Oxen, we’re not only giving our players and coaches access to high-quality, professional kit, but we’re also supporting a leading local supplier.
Parents can order official AC8 Academy kit bundles on the Oxen website
here
"My son has tried various academies in Harrogate and the surrounding areas -nothing compares to what AC8 offer. The coaching, structure, and atmosphere are miles ahead. If you’re looking for the best local football coaching, this is it."
Parent of Harry, Age 10