Simon’s message

“Enjoyment, and the right amount of guidance”

Thanks for visiting the SFA website!

The most important thing for me is that we continue to make the sessions enjoyable, and to ensure the academy is a place where the children can make new friends whilst enjoying their football, in an exciting environment.

I know how hard, and how pressurised, football can be for children at a younger age. I was released from Notts County at 15 because I had a long-term injury from overuse. I didn’t want to let the team and manager down by not playing, but I wasn’t enjoying it, and that ended up affecting my performance, which in turn ended up with me being released.

This is why I’m excited to become part of this set up – where I can watch and hopefully take part in some coaching, with the ultimate goal of expanding the academy throughout Bournemouth.

To all the existing players, I look forward to seeing you, and I hope to see some new faces down there soon!

Franno.