Southampton Football Club is delighted to welcome Tekkers Academy-Bahrain to its portfolio of International Academy Partners, and the club’s first international partner from the sovereign state in the Middle East.
Established in 2015 by Paul Shipwright and Deena Rahman, the Tekkers Academy has grown year on year, supporting the development of the game in Bahrain.
Operating in Busaiteen, Seef/Sanabis, Saar, Hamala and Riffa, Tekkers provide sports training for children aged 18-months to 18-years-old and beyond, regardless of ability, background, religion or gender.
Both Paul and Deena bring a wealth of coaching and playing experience to the programme, with Deena’s playing résumé including Fulham and England Youth in the UK, whilst currently representing the Bahrain National Women’s team, having been a resident for the past 10 years.
Mark Abrahams, Director of Business & Community Development at Southampton Football Club, commented; “Once we met with both Paul and Deena it was clear they have a real passion for the game and a commitment to developing both their coaches and players. Their approach and values connect really well with the Southampton Way and therefore the International Academy Partner programme fits perfectly with our shared ambitions.”
mark abrahams
Their approach and values connect really well with the southampton way.
The partnership creates an opportunity for Tekkers Academy staff to access Saints' Academy Performance Programme, including; coach education webinars, an online resource library, as well as a curriculum to support the Tekkers Academy programme.
Players from Bahrain will also have a range of opportunities to take part in a UK-based player development camp in Southampton, to learn the values of the Southampton Way and experience a Premier League Academy programme first hand.
Founding Partners Paul Shipwright and Deena Rehman commented: “Tekkers is delighted to be entering this new partnership with Southampton FC because it will enhance the opportunities and learning that we can offer our players and coaches. The values and goals of our Academy match those of Southampton perfectly and there is no better fit for us as a partner.
"The success that Southampton has consistently had in producing top class players is second to none and having access to that knowledge and the opportunity to take our players to their Academy is truly exciting for us.”
The club's portfolio of international academy partners continues to grow with organisations and clubs from around the world. For further information on the Tekkers Academy partnership or the international academy partner programme contact global@saintsfc.co.uk.
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