Dundee United’s academy has secured Elite status, it has been confirmed.
By reaching the top rung of the Club Academy Scotland structure, United’s youth set-up will be the only one at that level in this area.
Chairman Mark Ogren said: “I am thrilled that we have achieved this within our first year at the club.
“One of the keystones of our future, when Scott and I took over the club, was to ensure the Dundee United academy became one of the finest in the country. It has taken a lot of hard work by the staff and a bit of investment, but we have reached a significant goal in our plans with today’s news.
“Our academy will now have the best possible opportunity of producing top players who can develop as first team players and beyond. I must praise the work done by Sporting Director Tony Asghar, Academy Director Andy Goldie and the staff around them who have helped us become the first club to step up from Progressive level into the Elite level.
“In under a year, we have made vital improvements including the design of our academy performance plan, coaching qualifications, technical and tactical plans, child wellbeing and protection, physical performance and performance, data analysis and facilities and I praise the staff’s efforts.”
Academy Director Andy Goldie added: “Our coaches, physios, scouts, analysts and players have really bought into what we are creating here and deserve to be working in an environment that they will continue to develop and flourish. I am delighted that all the work that has gone into this application has now been rewarded.”
