SSFC Domestic Academy

Domestic Academy

A structured, progressive pathway for young players across South Tyneside, from first kicks to elite development. Our Domestic Academy gives every player the environment, coaching, and ambition they need to reach their potential.

About the Academy

More than football

The South Shields FC Domestic Academy is a year-round player development programme for young people across South Tyneside. We offer a clear, progressive pathway, from introductory weekly sessions through to our elite 16–19 programme, which prepares players for a career in professional or semi-professional football.

We believe that developing great players starts with developing great people. Our coaching philosophy is built around technical excellence, character development, and a genuine love of the game. Whether your child is taking their first steps in football or targeting a career at the top end of the game, there is a place for them at South Shields FC.

Explore the pathway

Player Pathway

from first session to elite development

Our three-stage pathway is designed to give every player the right challenge at the right time. Each stage builds on the last, so wherever you're starting from, you'll always know where you're heading next.

Weekly Sessions

Introductory sessions open to all ages and abilities. The ideal starting point for any young player.

Browse Weekly

Futures Academy

A structured development programme for talented players aged 11–16, focused on technical skill, tactical awareness, and personal development.

Explore the Futures Academy

SSFC Academy

Our elite pathway for players aged 16–19, combining high-level training with education and life skills preparation.

Explore the SSFC Academy

Our approach

Rooted in community. Driven by ambition.

South Shields FC has built one of the most ambitious clubs in the North East, and our Academy reflects that ambition at every level. We invest in quality coaching, purposeful training environments, and a culture where young players are challenged, supported, and given the best possible chance to succeed.

Our Academy operates from Mariners Park, giving players access to the same facilities used by our senior men’s and women’s teams. We believe that environment matters, and we want every Academy player to feel the pride and identity that comes with representing South Shields FC.

Our Coaches

Coached by people who care

Our coaching staff combine professional experience with a genuine commitment to player development. Every coach in the Academy is qualified, DBS-checked, and dedicated to getting the best from every individual, on and off the pitch.

FA Qualified

All of our coaches hold current, relevant FA coaching qualifications appropriate to the age groups they work with.

DBS Checked

Every member of our coaching staff completes a full DBS check before working with our Academy players.

Safeguarding

All staff complete recognised safeguarding training to ensure every player feels safe, supported, and respected.

Ongoing CPD

The club actively supports its coaches with continued professional development, keeping knowledge and practice current.

Straight from our players

“We didn't know what to expect when we first brought Jake along. He'd been playing in the park but had never had any real coaching. From the very first session, the coaches were brilliant with him. Patient, encouraging, and clearly knew their stuff. A year on, he's a different player. More importantly, he absolutely loves it.”

Sarah M, parent of Jake, aged 9

Weekly Sessions player

“We didn't know what to expect when we first brought Jake along. He'd been playing in the park but had never had any real coaching. A year on, he's a different player. More importantly, he absolutely loves it.”

Jane S, parent of Sean, aged 13

Weekly Sessions player

Get Involved

Ready to take the next step?

Whether you're a parent looking to get your child involved, a young player ready to commit to the next level, or someone interested in coaching, we'd love to hear from you.