New development squad draws big names to Exeter FC

Playing teams such as Fulham, Tottenham and Chelsea every week sounds like the stuff of footballing dreams - but thanks to an education programme being delivered by Exeter City’s Football in the Community Trust,  in partnership with Teignmouth Community School, that’s exactly the sides Exeter City’s Development Squad are meeting each Wednesday.

The Trust created its first Development Squad this season and entered the English Colleges Football Association Premier League/Football League Division. The league includes high-profile teams such as Tottenham, Watford, Birmingham and Chelsea and aims to link various Football Community Trusts working in partnership with local colleges and schools.

Exeter City’s Development Squad is managed by Dean Coppard and former Grecian Ben Watson and they have already gained some impressive performances and results in what is a very competitive league: the team has beaten Fulham at Bishopsteignton 3-2 and also had a 2-2 draw with Spurs, who equalised with a last-minute goal to deny City a famous victory.

“I am delighted to have set up this project with Teignmouth Community School and we hope that playing in this high-profile league will inspire more young people to get involved and combine sport and education,” said Jamie Vittles, Head of Community.

“I’d also encourage anyone - whether or not they are interested in joining - to come and see one of their matches. A full fixture list can be found at www.ecfaleague.co.uk.”

The Trust is currently looking to recruit Year 11 or Year 12 students for next year’s Football and Education programme and anyone interested should contact Dean Coppard at Teignmouth Community School on 01626 774091 or by email on dean.coppard@teignmouth.devon.sch.uk.