ELITE COACHING
6 Locations
Player Development
Academy Pathway
Your Pathway into the ADC for boys
- Register – Complete our online form to join the waiting list.
- Trial Invitation – We’ll contact you when a place is available or for Talent ID events.
- Join the ADC – Train weekly during term time, continue playing grassroots football.
*Annual player reviews determine who continues for the next season.
*Spaces may open for new players based on performance and availability.
FAQS
About the ADCs
A: ADCs are weekly football training sessions for talented young boys, aged 7–14, designed to enhance their skills, confidence, and understanding of the game. They run alongside grassroots and school football, not instead of them.
A: Our ADC programme works closely with Exeter City Academy. Academy scouts and staff regularly visit sessions, monitor player development, and provide feedback to our coaches.
A: We currently run ADCs in five locations: Exeter (Exwick), Tiverton, Barnstaple, Bridgwater, and Cranbrook.
Joining & Trials
A: You must complete our ADC trial request form to be added to the waiting list. When a space becomes available or a Talent ID event is planned, we will contact you with details.
A: No. Completing the form registers your interest and adds your child to our waiting list. You will only be invited if there is space or during a scheduled Talent ID event.
A: Players are assessed during a trial or Talent ID event. A select group will be invited to join the ADC based on skill, potential, and attitude.
A: A Talent ID event is an open session where players are assessed by our ADC coaching team. These events are often the first step to joining an ADC and may take place before the start of a new season or when spaces become available.
Training & Commitment
A: ADCs train once a week during term time. Players are encouraged to continue training and playing matches with their grassroots club.
A: No. The ADC programme is designed to support and enhance grassroots football, not replace it.
A: Each age group is reviewed once a year. Coaches decide which players will continue based on merit and commitment. This review process may free up spaces for new players from the waiting list.
If your child is successful in their trial, a link will be sent by email to allow you to order the kit directly from Stitch to Print.
Opportunities & Progression
A: While there are no guarantees, ADC players are closely monitored by Academy scouts. If a player consistently demonstrates high performance and potential, they may be invited to trial with the Academy.
A: Yes, in addition to training, ADC players may take part in fixtures and events against other Advanced Development Centres during the season.