MALVERN Town Football Club are launching the first player development centre for under 14s specifically for the district.

They are aiming to support, but not compete with, local football provision and hope to offer a pathway for those at the top of the grassroots game.

Malvern's programme will be for players to attend as they continue with their grassroots club and Town will not be creating a separate team.

As part of rebooting the Langland Stadium club, Malvern sporting director Ted Grizzell will lead the programme and drive engagement with local clubs and the community.

A UEFA 'B' licence coach, Grizzell has 10 years of coaching experience and works within a category one Premier League academy.

The under 14s player development centre pilot scheme will have an initial open trial day next Friday on the 4G pitch at Dyson Perrins Academy, Yates Hay Road, Malvern, from 6.45pm until 8.15pm. Registration is between 6.30pm and 6.45pm.

Players will then be picked to formally commence the six-week programme on Friday, March 7, with a group of between 10 and 20 at no cost to participants.

The centre is available for current under 13s and 14s players across all positions, including goalkeepers, with plans for a full under 15s programme covering the whole of next season.

They must play for clubs, attend school or live within the Malvern Hills district. There will also be sessions for local coaches to observe and talk to centre staff.

Players, who want to head to the trial, are asked to return an application form by next Wednesday to Ted Grizzell, Sporting Director, Malvern Town FC, Langland Stadium, Langland Avenue, WR14 2EQ, or e-mail Ted@MalvernTown.co.uk. For more details, call 07598-412 802.