It’s been a good 2018 so far for second year student Tyreece Robinson, not only is he currently on a month long trial – with fellow Sports student Morgan Williams – at Derby County, he has now signed a first team contract.
“I am really happy to have signed a contract with Mickleover Sports after all the effort and commitment I have put in over the last 18 months since starting the course. It just shows what can be achieved when you really want something“
The NPLFA has many recruitment avenues and Tyreece explains how he first came to learn about the programme “I heard about the NPLFA course with Mickleover Sports on Facebook and applied straight away after some research on the Facebook page and the website. I liked what I saw as it was just what I was looking for after I had finished school.
“After I applied I was invited down for several trials, of which lots of lads attended and was reduced down to a smaller group which finally got offered a place on the course. I had to have an interview at the club to discuss education etc and to be made aware of the opportunities available at the club”
Whilst progressing well on the football side of the programme, it is reiterated to all students that education is the most important aspect of the Academy and this is something that Tyreece is not taking for granted.
“Education is a very important part of the course as if you are unable to make a career out of football or you decide it isn’t for you, you the still have your education to fall back on. It can still provide excellent opportunities outside of playing football such as coaching, refereeing and becoming a physio. I am on my second year of the course and all is going well”
Coming to the end of the course this summer, Tyreece is looking at the options available to him post NPLFA “ I am looking to do something involved in football when the course finishes. The degree course is something I am thinking about but at this moment in time, I am undecided on the football side, I want to be playing regular first team football matches to gain experience playing “mens” football so I will continue to work hard and train hard to make this happen”
In closing Tyreece had some final thoughts on the NPLFA and advice to those who are coming on board or thinking about doing so from September “I have enjoyed the high standard of training and coaching from my gaffers John McGrath and Andy Dales. They set a good example of what you need to aim for and they give good first-hand advice and are both highly experienced in the game. I have enjoyed the opportunities given to me for example playing in last years Grand Final and being involved in the Inter-League team against Port Vale.
“I would highly recommend the NPLFA course to anyone that is serious about a career in football and is wanting to become a better player. Don’t go into it if you just think it’s going to be a walk in the park as it isn’t.”
Thanks Tyreece and we wish you the very best of luck for the future, keep working hard.