New grassroots soccer academy launched in north-east
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A new grassroots soccer academy has been launched in the north-east to support young and aspiring footballers.
Galaxy Soccer Academy has been set up by Richie Reid, owner of Endgame FC, an innovative Aberdeen-based football training school.
The new spin-off academy has stemmed from the success of Endgame FC with Richie inspired to launch the new venture to encourage more participation in soccer for children who are new to playing in a team.
Galaxy Soccer Academy is a not-for-profit club currently focused on children born in 2014.
The team plays in the Aberdeen District Juvenile Football Association (ADJFA) seven-a-side non-competitive Sunday fixtures in the Ronaldo League.
The team holds training sessions at Strikers in Bridge of Don with home games currently played at Goals in Garthdee.
Richie said: “Galaxy Soccer Academy is aimed at up-and-coming young footballers who are passionate about the game but may not have had the opportunity to play for a team yet.
“So far, the boys are all doing really well, it’s a completely new experience for them and they’re working hard and learning how to gel as a team.
“We have a great group of players and Galaxy is offering them the chance to develop their skills and progress through the levels of the sport from a young age.”
Boys come from all over the north-east, from Ellon, Tarves and Balmedie to Bridge of Don and Aberdeen city, to train with Richie and his team of experienced Scottish Youth Football Association (SYFA) qualified coaches.
Richie added: “We are an inclusive, welcoming and friendly club. The kids are always enthusiastic and ready to give it their all.
"The parents are always telling me their kids wake up keen to get to the pitch and get stuck in.
"I’m very grateful for all the support from the parents as I continue working hard to build trust with families to support the development of the region’s newest grassroots football team.”
Kicking things off in style, the Galaxy boys have enjoyed playing in local non-competitive matches.
Richie said: “When one of the boys got their first goal, he ran the entire length of the pitch to celebrate with his dad, it was a very special moment.
“It makes it all worthwhile when I see their excitement and confidence in their abilities shine through.
“Playing as part of a team inspires them to work hard in a non-competitive atmosphere. Of course, it’s nice to win, but the name of the game with Galaxy is just to have fun and enjoy it.
“With the right approach, the benefits of football go way beyond the park into children’s cognitive and behavioural development and their growth physically, mentally and emotionally – that’s why we always look at the whole child, not just the footballer.”
Dad-of-three Richie is a sports science graduate, who set up Endgame FC in 2021 to align with his passion for training young footballers.
Richie manages his sideline sports ventures alongside a busy family life and a full-time role as an IT support centre manager.
He said: “I’m incredibly grateful to the support of my family, especially my wife Kay as without her patience and support, none of this would be possible.”
The next steps for Richie will be to secure a permanent home ground for Galaxy Soccer Academy as well as widening its scope to include younger players, with a 2020 age group next on the horizon.
Galaxy Soccer Academy is currently looking for a sponsor for its training kit.
To find out more, follow Galaxy Soccer Academy on its Facebook page.
