LATEST UPDATE: Jermain Defoe, a former standout player for Sunderland, initiates the establishment of a fresh football academy aimed at discovering future talents from Wearside.

Sunderland icon Jermain Defoe has introduced a football academy aiming to uncover a fresh crop of talent.

Partnering with East Durham College, this venture is described as a pioneering collaboration, merging top-tier sports education and football training for 16-18-year-olds in the North East.

Scheduled to commence in September 2024, the Jermain Defoe Football Academy seeks to nurture both male and female students, fostering their football prowess while supporting their academic growth under the tutelage of experienced sports lecturers at East Durham College.

On-field development will be facilitated by regular sessions led by UEFA-licensed coaches, including former Sunderland AFC defender Darren Holloway, alongside special mentoring from Defoe himself.

Furthermore, students will gain access to various perks, such as performance analysis, onsite physiotherapy, strength training, and opportunities to compete in regional leagues and national cups.

Off the field, students will pursue a Sports Coaching and Development Level 2 or Level 3 program, tailored to enhance academic, leadership, and employability skills, paving the way for higher education, apprenticeships, employment, and US scholarship avenues.

Jermain Defoe expressed his long-held aspiration for the academy, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the next generation.

The academy signifies an extension of Defoe’s involvement with East Durham College, building upon his previous collaboration with the Bradley Lowery Foundation, offering holiday football camps for local children.

Chris English, Curriculum Director of Professional Studies at East Durham College, envisions the academy as a transformative force, propelling the college to become the premier destination for football training in the region.

Prospective students for Year 12 and Year 13 can participate in a trial day on April 3, attended by Jermain Defoe, by securing free tickets through Eventbrite.