11/08/2026
https://www.oldhamathletic.co.uk/news/2026/august/10/academy-/
Oldham Athletic Academy and Saddleworth FC Juniors have formed a new association aimed at creating enhanced development opportunities for young footballers in the local community.
The agreement will see Saddleworth’s junior players given opportunities to access training with the Latics Academy, while the club’s volunteer coaches will benefit from the knowledge and experience of established Academy staff.
Discussions between the two clubs began around a year ago, following an introduction between Saddleworth FC Director of Football David Beresford and Oldham Academy manager Phil Arbelo-Dolan.
Saddleworth FC, which was founded in 2015, has built a pathway for young players from its Football Academy through to junior league football. The club currently has 20 junior teams ranging from U7 to U15, alongside its Academy programme for younger children.
Saddleworth chairman Mike Leyland is delighted to see the relationship with the Latics Academy take shape.
He said: “I'm genuinely delighted that Saddleworth FC has formed an association with Oldham Athletic's Academy. Discussions started around a year ago, with our Director of Football David Beresford introducing us to Phil, who has given us great encouragement and shown a deep understanding of how fruitful the association can be for both clubs.
“This year we have 20 junior teams ranging from U7 to U15, are looking forward to giving our young players training opportunities with the Academy, as well as our volunteer coaches the chance to learn from established professionals. We are excited to see this venture progress so that we can continue to deliver a positive platform for children of all abilities.”
For the Oldham Academy, the partnership represents an opportunity to strengthen links with grassroots football and support the development of young players at an early stage of their football journey.
Academy manager Phil Arbelo-Dolan said: “We’re really pleased to be working with Saddleworth FC and to be able to support the development of young players within the local community. The most important thing is giving children opportunities to enjoy football, develop their skills and understand what they can achieve through hard work and good coaching.
“This association gives Saddleworth players the chance to experience an Academy environment and learn from our staff, while also allowing us to build a stronger connection with grassroots football. We’re looking forward to seeing how the players develop and helping them take the next steps in their football journey.”
The relationship will build on Saddleworth FC’s existing commitment to player development and coach education. The club’s Football Academy already follows England Football’s Play Phase framework, providing a structured introduction to football for younger players in a positive, no-pressure environment.
With both clubs focused on developing young talent and providing positive experiences for players, coaches and families, the new association will provide a platform for closer collaboration between the grassroots and professional games.
The working association is expected to develop further over the coming months, with both clubs looking forward to creating new opportunities for Saddleworth’s young players and coaches.
Oldham Athletic
