A partnership has been forged with Starbridge Sports to help provide further opportunities for youngsters who come through the academy system.
Brett Jones from Starbridge Sports explained what the organisation is all about. He said: “We’ve been running now for around ten years and we’re very local. Our company offers bespoke and professional sports services. We specialise in obtaining sports scholarships in the USA collegiate system along with running elite and development sports tours.
“I played at some of the local clubs such as Notts County and then went out to America to play football, which was great.
“We aim to send athletes out to America to join their educational system whilst also still pursuing football alongside their studies.
“I’ve always had the passion for helping young people and within my current role as a PE teacher alongside this business, my goal is to give people within professional football clubs the chance to continue their football education abroad.
“We work with a small number of people and provide a personal service to ensure that we give everyone the best quality service that we can provide.
“I’ve known Neil [Cluxton] for a long time, that’s how the link-up has started and now we’re providing people with the opportunity to do what I did.”
Brett is passionate about doing what he can to help youngsters realise their potential. “It’s all about helping people for me,” he said.
“We want to provide people with amazing opportunities and give them the chance to continue their studies and continue in a football environment.
“Hopefully this will help, and the local community will hopefully see that we’re helping young athletes and players from Chesterfield and providing them with top opportunities.
“I’m really excited for the future and I truly believe that this relationship can succeed and expand for years to come.”
One youngster from the academy, Jack Heald, is heading over to the USA on a scholarship and Brett is delighted to have played a role in that.
He said: “I’m buzzing for him. He’s got a wonderful family and I know his dad really well since beginning the process.
“He’s not just committed to the football side of things but he’s also extremely committed to the educational side.
“He wants to succeed in both areas and I think this is going to prepare him for future life, even after he finishes football.
“Moving to a different country, living away from home and fending for himself for the first time will hopefully make him a stronger individual and develop his character.”
Check our Starbridge Sports’ website: www.starbridgesports.com.
*Jack Heald (left) is pictured with Brett Jones from Starbridge Sports
