ANOTHER PROUD MOMENT FOR SAINTS SOUTHWEST ACADEMY!

We are incredibly pleased and proud to announce the fabulous achievements of another trio of our young Academy players who have signed for Plymouth Argyle.

Ethan (U8), Oscar (U8), and Archie (U8) have recently signed for Plymouth Argyle.

At Saints Southwest, we're all about helping young football players achieve their potential and giving them a clear pathway to develop and progress in the game.

Similarly to Harry Wannell, Logan Holmes, and Torrin Webb-Thompson (the previous Saints Southwest trio to sign for Plymouth Argyle), Ethan, Oscar, and Archie have all shown the necessary attributes, both on and off the pitch, to have earned this opportunity!

Aidens son Archie has Recently signed for Plymouth Argyles Academy, having previously represented Saints Southwest, Here is what he had to say about our Community and Football development programmes!

Archie and his family after he signed for Plymouth Argyle!

From the age of 4, Archie’s journey with Saints Southwest has been nothing short of incredible. He began in the community sessions, progressed into the Advanced Development Centre, then into the Devon Academy, which ultimately led him to Plymouth Argyle’s pre-academy and now their Under-9s Academy. Every step of the way, Saints Southwest has played a huge part in shaping not only Archie’s footballing ability, but also his confidence, character, and love for the game.

The coaches, the friends he’s made, and above all, the fun, happy, and encouraging environment have been central to his development. Every coach, from the early community sessions through to the Devon Academy, has been outstanding and a true credit to youth football. What has stood out most is the confidence-building atmosphere Saints creates. It’s an environment where children are allowed to make mistakes, learn, and grow as players and people. That freedom has helped Archie develop a fearless and creative style of play and I truly believe this wouldn’t have been possible without the support, care, and belief of his coaches.

I’m incredibly thankful to every single coach who has played a role in Archie’s journey.

I’d also like to make special mention of Adam Hayman and Craig Fitzgerald, who have both been instrumental in Archie’s development.

Having known Adam, I’ve always admired the incredible work he does in our local football community. His passion, commitment and drive to create opportunities and clear pathways for young players is something I deeply respect. Adam has always been brilliant with Archie and continues to offer his support even now. His work is widely respected, but I want to personally thank him for everything he’s done for both of my children. It means a great deal.

Craig has also had a huge influence on Archie’s journey, one that began way back at his grassroots club, Watcombe Wanderers. When we found out Craig would be his coach in the Devon Academy, we were over the moon. Craig is one of the most passionate, progressive, and caring coaches I’ve ever come across. He has a unique ability to create a fun, high-energy environment, while still challenging and encouraging players to reach their potential. The way he connects with children and inspires them is truly special and it’s clear how much he’s loved and respected by all his players. Craig has been a real role model for Archie and I’ll always be grateful for the influence he’s had.

Finally I want to say a heartfelt thank you to Saints Southwest as a whole for the incredible support you’ve given Archie. It’s bittersweet to leave and we’re sad to go, but we take with us unforgettable memories and a foundation that will always be part of Archie’s journey.

I would highly recommend Saints Southwest to any parent, whether your child has aspirations of a football pathway, or simply wants to build confidence and social skills, Saints Southwest offers the perfect environment for every child to thrive.

Thank you for everything.

The Saints Southwest team wishes the boys all the best in their journey at Plymouth Argyle and is incredibly proud of their incredible achievement!