Basingstoke Town Community FC have officially formed an Academy Partnership with Premier League club Fulham FC to help aid the development and progress of both clubs.
This new, exciting partnership places particular emphasis on player and coach development, player care, and recruitment. The deal is based on a shared footballing philosophy in many key areas.
Players and coaches will benefit from the partnership, gaining professional knowledge and experiences which will ultimately help both clubs. With large focus on Academy recruitment, the collaboration with Fulham opens up many opportunities for Basingstoke Town.
Basingstoke Town Director of Football, Mike Gilham has commented: “We, as a club, are acting on the realisation of a shared football philosophy with Fulham FC, and that’s why we felt forming a partnership was a logical step to take.
“Both clubs have similar thoughts regarding how they develop players and coaches and the partnership is mutually beneficial. The deal is based on the similar values instilled in both clubs and the shared commitments to a few important areas.
“I’d like to thank Marcus Herron and Mike Cave for approaching us and working so closely on the partnership.”
Mike Cave, Academy Director at Fulham Football club stated “Formalising this partnership with Basingstoke Town is great news for both clubs, whilst we sit at different ends of the Football pyramid, we recognise the existence of shared values and football philosophies at both clubs. We are very excited about the potential of this partnership by supporting the development of Basingstoke’s Academy programmes and in-turn providing potential players with an initial opportunity at a Category One football academy.”
Chairman Jack Miller added “It’s outstanding for Basingstoke to form this alliance with a club so high up the footballing pyramid in Fulham and we’re excited to feel the effect that this new relationship will bring throughout our club.”
Basingstoke’s Academy will be a chief beneficiary of the partnership with Fulham FC, with increased playing and learning opportunities for young prospects. There will also be chances for Basingstoke Town’s junior teams to participate in Fulham friendly organised tournaments.