Middlesbrough-affiliated academy celebrate league title success just two years after forming

An elite youth football team based at a Middlesbrough sixth-form college have pipped rivals from top pro clubs to win a coveted league title at just the second attempt.

Middlesbrough FC/T6 Academy under-19s clinched the National Football Youth League North-East Premier Division with a game to spare. What makes the achievement even more remarkable is that the team – run by Middlesbrough-based T6 Trinity Catholic Sixth Form in an exclusive partnership with Middlesbrough Football Club – was only formed two years ago.

The squad, comprising players aged 17 and 18, are 14 points clear and have lost just once all season in a league that includes opponents such as Everton and Sunderland.

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Head of T6 football academy Dave McTiernan – who was a trainee in Boro’s acclaimed academy before enjoying a career in non-league football – said: “Winning the league title in such a competitive environment is a testament to the talent and commitment of our players and staff.

“To see our players rise to this level within a short period is truly remarkable. It has been a fantastic journey for us. We didn’t realise quite how much talent there is in Teesside and North Yorkshire, but we’re proving we’re up among the best in the country.”

Backed by Nicholas Postgate Catholic Academy Trust (NPCAT), the T6 Academy boasts impressive facilities at its Phoenix Park home on Lacy Road, including high-quality grass and 4G pitches, a strength and conditioning suite including weights and cardiovascular areas and a video analysis room.

“Our facilities are excellent and are still being upgraded and that’s helped us,” said Mr McTiernan. “Families and fellow students and staff come along to game and it’s starting to really grow within NPCAT, not just within the academy.”

Some T6 Football students also represent semi-professional football clubs, while others have secured scholarships in the United States. Notable individual achievements include striker Kayden Coley-Robinson winning the golden boot with an impressive tally of 32 goals so.

“Last year Alfie Steele won it and went on to sign for Hartlepool United, so we’re hoping this will encourage professional clubs to come and look at Kayden,” said Mr McTiernan. "Getting to the level we have within a couple of years is brilliant. Together with Alfie joining Hartlepool and making his debut, the title win has capped off a thoroughly successful year.”

Meanwhile, T6’s under-17 team, comprising first-year players aged 16 and 17, is also on track to secure the National Football Youth League North East Championship and complete an impressive double. They lead the standings with two games remaining, including a crucial match against second-placed Sheffield United on Wednesday, May 22.

“Our success results from the dedication and expertise of our staff, who have played a crucial role in shaping the players' careers,” said Mr McTiernan. “The partnership with Middlesbrough Football Club is invaluable and I can’t praise them enough. We’ve been able to use their training facilities, we play in Boro kits and they’re always there to offer support. None of our players have progressed into their system yet, but who knows what the future holds?”

As well as their football training, T6 students also study for qualifications including A-levels and BTECs. Recruits all have outstanding youth football pedigrees, with most having narrowly missed out on scholarships with professional clubs. NPCAT runs 38 schools throughout Teesside and North Yorkshire, including the city of York.

Most of the T6 students come from secondary schools in the NPCAT family, but there are also trainees from as far away as York and Northallerton. CEO Hugh Hegarty paid tribute to all the staff and thanked parents for embracing the programme.

He said: “NPCAT continues to be system-leading and this is a further example of our determination to have a positive impact on our communities. Congratulations to the players!”

The league title trophy presentation ceremony took place after the last game of the season, against Hyde United at Phoenix Park on Wednesday, May 8, with the team honoured for their outstanding performances.