Wolves Former Players Association were treated to a tour of Wolves Academy and a spot of lunch for their annual Christmas get-together, this time at the Compton training ground.
With thanks to Wolves general manager of marketing and commercial growth Russell Jones, executive assistant Lin Kennings, and several Academy staff, the group of former players were able to take a look at a training session for the Under-18s and behind-the-scenes at the facilities enjoyed by young hopefuls aiming to one day follow in their footsteps and grace the Wolves first team.
The Academy’s managers, Jonathan Hunter-Barratt and Laura Nicholls took the former players through all the details and processes involved in the academy programme, whilst Under-18s Lead Coach Richard Walker led a brief pause in training to introduce the young players to the club heroes.
The trip follows previous FPA visits to the first team building at the Compton training ground, and also for a look around Molineux as well as the club’s Museum.
“It was another fantastic few hours for us all down at the training ground and a pleasure to find out more about Wolves Academy,” said FPA Chairman and Wolves’ Vice-President John Richards.
“All the staff were really welcoming and it was great not only to see the lads train but also learn more about all the different features that go into their development.
“It’s fair to say that lot has changed since the time when we were all coming through as youngsters, and that there is now no stone unturned in giving players the best possible opportunities to become professionals.
“As former players, we meet up regularly throughout the year for different events and social gatherings, as well as supporting several local charities, and to be able to enjoy these opportunities at Wolves is something that we really appreciate.
“The hospitality from everyone at Wolves and at the training ground was first class, and we would just like to thank everyone involved for ensuring we enjoyed such a worthwhile visit.”
Even more so, the ex-players also bumped into a more recent former Wolf in winger Matt Jarvis, who was doing some mentoring work with the Academy scholars.
The delegation from Wolves FPA who enjoyed the visit included John, Vice-Chairman Steve Daley, Administration Manager Richard Green, committee member Geoff Palmer and former players Kenny Hibbitt, George Berry, Barry Powell, Mel Eves, Gerry Taylor, Norman Bell, Gerry Farrell, Phil Nicholls and Steve Cousins.
