WHY ACADEMY TRAINING?
Youth football development Harrogate
BUILDING STRONG FOUNDATIONS FOR YOUNG PLAYERS
At AC8 Academy, we believe great footballers aren’t just born - they’re developed. Our academy programme gives every child the opportunity to train like a professional, in a fun, structured, and supportive environment built around excellence in youth football development in Harrogate.
THE AC8 ACADEMY ADVANTAGE
Our approach to football coaching is designed to give children more than just skills — we develop complete players. What sets us apart:
UEFA-qualified coaches who deliver professional-standard sessions.
Focus on technical ability, tactical understanding and physical literacy.
A positive, inclusive environment where every player is valued.
Player pathways that help children progress at their own pace.
A proven track record in youth football development in Harrogate and the surrounding areas.
Personalised coaching and feedback that helps each player reach their full potential.
THE COACHING TEAM: EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST
At the heart of AC8 Academy is a coaching team unlike any other in the region. Led by Adam Clayton, a former Premier League professional footballer and now UEFA A Licensed Coach,, our team brings together a wide range of expertise and energy that gives players the perfect balance of inspiration and development.
OUR COACHES INCLUDE:
Former Premier League players
who bring first-hand experience from the highest levels of the game.
UEFA-qualified coaches
who understand how to nurture potential at every stage.
Youth development experts
who make learning fun, engaging and age-appropriate
Young professional players
who provide relatable role models for our aspiring athletes.
Specialist trainers
including a dedicated fitness coach focusing on speed, strength, and athletic performance, alongside experts in goalkeeping, technical skill and player mindset.
This diverse mix of experience ensures every player benefits from expert-led sessions that are dynamic, inspiring, and unmatched for quality across Yorkshire.
A COMPLETE PLAYER DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY
From the first kick to advanced match scenarios, AC8 Academy supports every stage of a player’s growth.
Our training model includes:
TECHNICAL MASTERY:
First touch, passing, dribbling and ball control.
GAME INTELLIGENCE:
Understanding positioning, movement and decision-making.
PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT:
Strength, speed, coordination and agility.
PSYCHOLOGICAL GROWTH:
Confidence, focus, and resilience both on and off the pitch.
SOCIAL SKILLS:
Teamwork, communication and leadership.
LIFESTYLE & WELLBEING:
Nutrition, rest, and healthy habits for peak performance.
This balanced model is what makes AC8 Academy a trusted leader in youth football development in Harrogate.
Where kids fall in love with football
Start your football journey with AC8 Academy
LEARNING FROM THE BEST
Every AC8 session is inspired by professional football environments. Founder Adam Clayton and his coaching team bring real-world experience from clubs such as Manchester City, Middlesbrough, Leeds United, Huddersfield Town, and Doncaster Rovers giving players authentic insight into what it takes to succeed.
Our coaches don’t just teach football; they mentor, motivate and help every child realise their potential.
"We’re proud that our academy goes beyond developing great players, we help shape great people. Through sport, children learn discipline, respect, teamwork, and self-belief... skills that last a lifetime"
"If your child loves football, wants to improve, and enjoys being challenged in a fun and supportive setting, then AC8 Academy is the perfect fit."
Adam Clayton, Team Principal & Founder of AC8 Academy, Harrogate
LOOKING TO GIVE YOUR CHILD THE EDGE IN FOOTBALL AND LIFE?
Join AC8 Academy today and experience the difference that dedicated, professional coaching makes in youth football development in Harrogate and surrounding areas.