Grimsby Town Football Club is proud to officially welcome our new cohort of U9 players to the Academy ahead of the 2025-26 season.

To celebrate this achievement, the Academy held an induction evening at Blundell Park to mark the significant milestone for the young Mariners and their families.

The evening offered our newest players a true taste of life at Grimsby Town. From exploring the home changing rooms, to walking down the tunnel, the boys got to experience the environment that so many Town greats have known.

A detailed presentation provided families with insights into the Academy’s values, development pathways, and expectations.

One of the night’s highlights was a speech from Men’s First Team player Charles Vernam, who shared inspiring words and personal stories about his journey in football.

Official signing photos captured the excitement of the moment, and a post-ceremony social event allowed families to connect and celebrate together.

The 2024-25 pre-academy programme has been a remarkable experience for our young players, with highlights including:

Training Day with the First Team – Players spent a full day at the training ground, getting a taste of life as a professional, including a Q&A session with Head Coach David Artell. Click here to watch.

Festive Training Session –  First Team players Cameron Gardner and Charles Vernam joined the squad over Christmas, creating lasting memories and sharing invaluable advice.

Elite Fixtures – The group faced top academies at Liverpool, Manchester City, and Tottenham Hotspur, even playing in front of Jude Bellingham at Spurs.

Blundell Park Experience – Playing on the pitch at half-time during a First Team fixture against Swindon Town in April was a thrilling moment for all involved.

Introducing the U9 Class of 2025-26

We are delighted to welcome the following talented players into the Academy:

Bobby Barford – Hessle Rangers / Thorngumbauld Barrons
Lucas Craggs – North Ferriby Whites
Luke Green – Hessle Rangers
Ronnie Higgins – Discoveries Allstars
Gabriel Oswin – GCW Mariners
Jack Revill – Gainsborough Trinity
Ernie Richards – Priory FC
Ellis Sullivan – Humberston Ravens
Barney Thompson – Priory FC
Leo White – Humberston Ravens
Samuel Whitehead – Cleethorpes Trinity
Alfie Wrightson – Thorngumbauld Barrons

Foundation Development Phase Coach Oliver Bradbury reflected on the year past year with the group and said, “It’s been an excellent season for the pre-academy group. The boys have shown great enthusiasm, talent, and potential.

“We’re excited to watch them grow, both as players and young people, within our Academy environment.”

We look forward to an exciting 2025-26 season, full of development, opportunity, and memorable moments for our newest Mariners.

UTM