We are delighted to announce two of the club’s bright young stars have been selected for the Irish FA’s Elite Academy programme.
Midfielder Reece Paul and goalkeeper Lewis Baxter are both from the Club’s 2007 Academy side and have been chosen for a place in this year’s prestigious intake with the IFA.
For Reece and Lewis, that will mean combining studying and training with other top young players around the country on a daily basis at Jordanstown, as they aim to start of on a path to full-time football.
Based at Ulster University’s Jordanstown campus, the academy is fully endorsed by UEFA, European football’s governing body, and operated by the Irish Football Association in conjunction with the university.
Gary Haveron, Larne’s Academy Director, is delighted to see both players gain this recognition, as well encouraging other young players at the club to see what is possible.
“It’s a very exciting time for the two boys and a wonderful opportunity for them both,” he said.
“The two lads will move to Jordanstown on a full-time basis over the next two years, and a great opportunity to carve a way into full-time football.
“The more contact time the IFA can have with talented players the better and the process is starting at a younger age now.
“It’s brilliant for the club as well, whenever young players are being recognised in this way. The coaches play their part in helping this getting to this stage.
“It ties in so well with our own full-time football pathway at the club. When the boys finish their two years with the IFA we can offer them an opportunity to continue that on with us, in the Scholarship programme we have at Inver Park.”
