Volunteer Talent ID scouts wanted
AFC Wimbledon’s Academy has stepped up its search for young footballing talent in the past year – and we’re looking for volunteer scouts to help shape the club’s future.
George Oakley (pictured), who recently signed a professional contract with the Dons, came through the ranks after being spotted playing local football and the academy is aiming to bring through more youngsters of his quality.
We are looking for Volunteer Talent ID Scouts, who will have responsibility for unearthing hidden gems in local leagues. AFC Wimbledon are also looking to recruit goalkeeper specialist scouts to help progress this pathway into academy football.
The Academy wants to develop its recruitment department further and this offers you a chance to make a difference. Head of Talent ID Karl Sharman is at the forefront of developing a team of scouts to help academy staff identify and recruit the best young players in the catchment area for youth squads.
Academy Manager Jeremy Sauer explained that this is a part of the club that he believes can develop considerably.
“We’ve had a year now of trying to put things in place to develop our talent ID recruitment,” said Jeremy. “When our academy played in local leagues we had parents knocking on our door to recommend their kids, but we’ve realised in recent years that we need to start recruiting our own players more.
“Karl has taken it to another level since he joined us. We had no scouts a year ago, but now we’re up to 14 so that is a credit to the job Karl is doing. He is very ambitious, which is great, and there’s plenty of scope to develop this part of the academy. This would enable us to spread the net in the search for talent.
If we could be recruiting three or four players from local leagues every season for every age group from Under-7s to Under-16s then that would really push it forward.” “We are looking for people who can be relied upon to represent the club and who have a keen eye to spot footballing talent. It would be great to develop this part of the academy.
of working with children, preferably football coaching (FA Level 1 Certificate), and should be available to attend specified local league matches on Saturday and/or Sunday mornings. Applicants are required to have some previous experience
All Talent ID scouts will need to have a valid CRB check, which can be obtained through the club. Successful applicants will be issued with club kit and our Talent ID policy and a code of conduct to be signed off.
If you are interested, then please e-mail us for more information and to register your interest by clicking on Talent Scout . Please include the subject line “TALENT ID SCOUT” in your e-mail.