Jim Fenlon came through the club's successful programme
There’s still time for you to follow in the footsteps of Wimbledon first-teamer Jim Fenlon by progressing through the AFC Wimbledon College Academy.
The programme combines regular playing opportunities with gaining an academic qualification and another trials day will be staged on Friday, 16 May, starting at 5.30 pm. The address is as follows: Tooting & Mitcham United FC, Bishopsford Road, Imperial Fields SM4 6B.
First-team full-back Jim Fenlon (pictured) came through Wimbledon’s college programme and more recently several players have progressed from it to play for the club’s Under-18s, development teams and have even featured in official first-team fixtures in county cup competitions.
.College trials Those wishing to considered, should e-mail Head of Wimbledon’s South Thames College Academy, Michael Hamilton, by clicking on
Please state your name, address, date of birth, contact details and football playing experience. Candidates must be eligible to play Under-16s or Under-17s football in the 2013/14 season. You must receive confirmation of a place at the trials in order to attend.
A list of frequently asked questions about the programme are published below:
HOW LONG IS THE COURSE?
The course lasts from one to two years, depending on your age, course chosen and GCSE grades.
WHO IS IT FOR?
It is for boys who are between 16-18 years of age that want to further their knowledge, understanding and ability in football, while at the same time continuing their education.
WHAT QUALIFICATION WILL I GAIN?
The Academy programme runs for a two year period – during this time students will study for a BTEC in Sports level 2 or 3 (dependent on GCSE qualifications) or a BTEC in Business, while receiving approximately 6-9 hours per week in active training.
WHERE DO I STUDY?
You will study at South Thames College - Merton Campus. The Campus address is Merton Campus, Morden Park, London Road, Morden, Surrey SM4 5QX.
WHERE DO I TRAIN?
The second venue is based in New Malden, where AFC Wimbledon’s first-team train. The New Malden sports ground boasts 10.9 hectares of playing fields, a gym and houses the club’s physiotherapy rehabilitation clinic. We train at two venues, the main base at Tooting & Mitcham United FC, which is an all-weather facility.
WHAT TYPE OF TRAINING WILL I RECEIVE TO HELP ME PROGRESS?
We are confident that all training you will receive from us will be second to none and provide every opportunity to fulfill your dreams. On the pitch, we will be looking to develop you in the technical, physical and social areas as well as off the pitch training, where you’ll receive advice on nutrition, fitness and conditioning regimes.
AM I SUPPLIED WITH KIT?
Training kit will need to be purchased. We wear the club’s official training kit as worn by every team at the club from the academy Under-9s through to the first team. Please note that this is the only cost incurred in joining the academy
WHO WILL BE TEACHING ME?
Fully qualified tutors from the college will be responsible for helping you gain your academic grades, while your football coaching will be overseen by Michael Hamilton, Head of College Academy.
AM I MEDICALLY LOOKED AFTER?
Definitely is the answer. We have a team of full time and part-time medical staff who will cater for all your physiotherapy needs.