CHESTERFIELD FC ACADEMY OFFICIAL TRIAL AND APPLICATION PROCEDURE TO JOIN ITS ACADEMY

CHESTERFIELD ACADEMY Information on everything relating to latest football trial opportunities. Includes the academy contact, process of applying for possible academy opportunities and trials procedure, scholarship availability and your chances on joining this academy. Improve your football progression - Register on our website today!

CHESTERFIELD Academy ratings, reviews, trial opportunity stats, staff ratings & more....

Academy Overall 5/10; Academy Staff 9/10; Academy Players 6/10; Facilities 5/10; Academy Status Category 3; Academy Ages U6 to U23+; Community U6-U8; Foundation U9-U12; Youth Development U13-U16; Scholarships Age 15 to 19; Professionals Players from Age 16+; Gifted/Talented Trials Opportunities - Seasonal; Academy Scouts, Staff 25+; Academy Players 200+; Overseas Trials Opportunities - TBA; Trial Chance Score 61%; Accept player CV - Yes; Formal trials procedure & contact provided - Yes; Website access gives you over 100 trials and 1000 clubs

"The academy philosophy is to create technically excellent players who are comfortable in possession of the football in all circumstances and who possess a high level of game intelligence."

Here is the application for the Chesterfield FC Academy. Whilst Open trials are hard to come by you must make an initial application to an academy to either be invited in for a trial or to get a football scout to come and watch you play. We cannot promise you will get scouted this time, but we always encourage to send in a playing CV.

England, where the rolling hills meet the passion for football, Chesterfield FC stands as a beacon for aspiring young talents. As one of the region's most storied clubs, Chesterfield FC's Academy has long been a nurturing ground for the next generation of Spireites. If you're a young footballer in the UK dreaming of lacing up boots at the professional level, the Academy's football trials offer a thrilling opportunity to showcase your skills. This article dives into everything you need to know about Chesterfield FC Academy trials, from eligibility and preparation to the application process and what makes this Derbyshire powerhouse unique.

The Legacy of Chesterfield FC Academy

Chesterfield Football Club, affectionately known as the Spireites, boasts a rich history dating back to 1866. Based at the SMH Group Stadium in Whittington Moor, Chesterfield—nestled in the scenic Derbyshire countryside—the club competes in the National League but has ambitious sights set on higher tiers. The Academy, categorized under the English Football League's (EFL) Category 3 status, focuses on developing players from under-9 to under-21 levels. It's more than just a training hub; it's a pathway that has seen talents progress to first-team action and even professional contracts elsewhere.

The Academy emphasizes holistic development, blending technical football prowess with education and personal growth. Trials are a key entry point, held annually to scout raw potential from across the UK. Whether you're from a local Derbyshire club or traveling from further afield in England, these trials are designed to identify players who embody the club's values of resilience, teamwork, and flair—qualities essential for thriving in the competitive world of English football.

Who Can Participate in the Trials?

Chesterfield FC Academy trials are open to boys and girls (though the men's pathway is more prominently featured in scouting) aged primarily between 9 and 16, aligning with schoolboy and schoolgirl categories. For the 2025/26 season, recent announcements highlight schoolboy trials specifically targeting under-9 to under-16 age groups. These are typically held in the summer months, with sessions at local facilities like the club's training grounds or partnered academies in Derbyshire.

Eligibility is straightforward but competitive:

- **Age Requirements**: Must be in the specified age band at the time of trials (e.g., under-12 trials for players born in a certain year).

• **Location**: Open to UK residents, with a focus on local talent from Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and surrounding areas to minimize travel barriers.
• - **Playing Experience**: No elite academy registration required, but prior experience in grassroots or junior leagues is advantageous. The Academy scouts for technical ability, physical fitness, tactical awareness, and attitude.
• - **FA Regulations**: All participants must adhere to The FA's safeguarding policies, including DBS checks for staff and consent forms for players.

Girls' trials are also conducted through the Women's Academy, which has produced national-level talents, such as players selected for All-Star Team Trials alongside stars from Chelsea and Liverpool academies

How to Apply for Chesterfield FC Academy Trials

Securing a spot in the trials starts with a simple registration process. Chesterfield FC makes it accessible via their official website and social channels.

1. **Visit the Official Site**:

Head to chesterfieldfc.com or the dedicated Academy section at chesterfield-fc.co.uk. Look for the "Academy Trials" or "Schoolboy Trials" page, which details upcoming dates and forms.
  
2. **Registration Form**:

Fill out an online application, providing details like your full name, date of birth, current club (if any), playing position, and contact information for parents/guardians. You'll also need to upload a short video highlight reel (1-2 minutes) showcasing your skills in matches or training.

3. **Deadlines**:

Applications typically open in spring for summer trials. For instance, the 2025 schoolboy trials were announced in June, with registrations encouraged via the club's news feed.
Keep an eye on deadlines—late entries may not be considered.

4. **Fees and Costs**:

Trials are free to attend once registered, but families should budget for travel to Derbyshire. Successful trialists may receive support for ongoing academy fees, which are subsidized for Category 3 setups.

5. **Confirmation**:

If selected, you'll receive an email with trial dates, location (often at the SMH Group Stadium or nearby pitches in Chesterfield), and what to bring (e.g., boots, shin pads, water bottle).

Follow Chesterfield FC on X (formerly Twitter) @ChesterfieldFC @tonyssoccer for real-time updates, as announcements like the recent schoolboy trials are shared there.

What to Expect on Trial Day

Trials at Chesterfield FC Academy are intense but fair, lasting 2-4 hours and involving multiple drills and small-sided games. Coaches from the Academy staff, including former professionals, assess every participant holistically.

- **Warm-Up and Fitness Tests**: Expect agility drills, sprints, and endurance runs to gauge athleticism.
- **Technical Sessions**: Passing, dribbling, shooting, and first-touch exercises to evaluate ball control.
- **Tactical Scenarios**: 5v5 or 7v7 matches where positioning, decision-making, and teamwork shine.
- **Interviews**: A short chat with scouts about your football journey, strengths, and why Chesterfield.

The Derbyshire weather can be unpredictable, so trials emphasize adaptability—rain or shine. Hydration and nutrition advice is provided pre-trial, and medical checks ensure safety.

Post-trial, feedback is given within weeks. Top performers receive invitations to further assessments or direct academy enrollment. Remember, even if not selected immediately, you might be placed on a development list for future opportunities.

Preparation Tips: Stand Out in the Crowd

With hundreds applying, preparation is key. Here's how to maximize your chances:

**Fitness First**: Build stamina through regular running and strength training. Academy players need to handle 90-minute sessions.
**Skill Sharpening**: Practice with a ball daily—focus on weak foot, heading, and set pieces. Join local Derbyshire leagues like the Derbyshire County FA youth divisions for match experience.
**Mental Toughness**: Trials are high-pressure; visualize success and stay positive. Watch Chesterfield's first-team games to understand their style.
**Video Analysis**: Record sessions and review with a coach. Highlight your best attributes in your application video.
**Nutrition and Rest**: Fuel with balanced meals and get plenty of sleep in the weeks leading up.

Local resources in Derbyshire, such as community pitches in Chesterfield or training camps in nearby Bakewell, can help hone your edge.

The Bigger Picture: Why Choose Chesterfield FC Academy?

Derbyshire's Chesterfield FC Academy isn't just about trials—it's a launchpad. Graduates have featured in EFL squads, with pathways to scholarships at 16-18 and professional deals. The club's proximity to the Peak District offers a balanced lifestyle, combining rigorous training with academic support at partnered schools like Chesterfield College.

In the UK football landscape, Category 3 academies like Chesterfield provide elite coaching without the cutthroat intensity of Premier League setups, making it ideal for Derbyshire locals and regional talents. Success stories abound, from youth internationals to first-team debuts, proving that trials here can change lives.

Final Whistle: Take Your Shot

If you're a budding footballer in Derbyshire or across England, Chesterfield FC Academy trials are your chance to step into the spotlight. With the schoolboy trials recently spotlighted, now's the time to apply and chase your Spireites dream. Visit chesterfieldfc.com/academy or follow @ChesterfieldFC and @tonyssoccer for the latest. Who knows? The next trial could be the start of your professional journey in the beautiful game.

*For the most up-to-date information, always check official sources, as trial dates and requirements can change.*

Additional Information that maybe of help in applying for trials

If we are impressed by a CV. We will make our interest in the player known by contacting the respective club at which they are registered. 

All enquiries must be directed to:

ACADEMY DEPARTMENT Please contact the club via email for information on the academy and trials. 

Academy Manager (interim): Neil Cluxton - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Lead Coach, Professional Development Phase: Neil Cluxton

Lead Coach, Youth Development Phase (U13-U16): Lee Walshaw

Head of Academy Recruitment: Danny Wilson

Head of Academy Recruitment: Stephen Hancock This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Remember you must live close to the academy it is not practical if you live 100's of miles away. Do not spam the Academies please be respectful.

Additional Information