Burton Albion's Academy gets sponsorship boost

Burton Albion Academy has joined forces with Arken.legal as the Brewers Academy's Player Care Partner, providing funding that will help make sure that there are no barriers for talented youngsters wanting to develop a football career.

Academy Manager Dan Robinson said: “We recruit from all over the Midlands and welcome youngsters from all backgrounds. We know that for some there are barriers that need to be overcome whether that’s transport, kit, nutrition or anything else where support is required.

“We are committed to providing the right level of support to make sure that all players get a chance to develop their talents and this funding is important in helping us provide that.

“I know Dave Newick, Arken.legal’s CEO, from my time in New Zealand and we share his vision of developing young talent so it’s great to have the company on board as a partner.”

Aaron Webster, Burton Albion Hall of Famer, and the Academy’s Player Care Representative said: “We don’t want any young player to miss out because they lack support, and they may not have the family network that can give them everything they need.

“Here at Burton Albion, we are committed to plugging any gaps in support that the youngsters have and making sure they can fulfil their ambitions.

“With my upbringing, I understand how difficult it can be and the sacrifices people have to make for you. If I didn’t have people who believed in me and could pick me up every Saturday morning, I might not have had a football career. After the pandemic these are tough times for a lot of people and asking them to come here four times a week to be part of an Academy set up isn’t something every family can do without support.

“That’s why it’s so great that Arken.legal can help us in this way.”

As well supporting the Academy, Arken.legal is sponsoring the football club with perimeter board advertising.

Dave Newick, of Arken.legal, said: “After a challenging 18 months, Arken has been looking for a positive programme supporting the community. The Burton Albion Player Care partnership is an inspiring initiative that encourages a sense of optimism and certainly supports the community, therefore the decision was easy.

"Football is an invaluable source of community and should be entirely meritocratic. Arken.legal’s values extend beyond the four walls of our office - ambition should be encouraged and background should never be a career barrier. We’re proud to be BAFC Academy partners, helping these young players to overcome the barriers they face and chase their dreams.”