Saints Southwest x Plymouth Argyle Academy – Official Partnership Announcement

We are pleased to share some exciting news with you all — Saints Southwest has officially entered into a formal partnership with Plymouth Argyle Academy. This partnership represents a significant milestone for us and builds upon a long-standing relationship that has already played a major role in supporting the development of young footballers across the South West.

Why This Matters

This new agreement reflects the shared commitment of both Saints Southwest and Plymouth Argyle to providing high-quality football environments and clear, structured pathways for aspiring players.

Promising young talents proudly showcase their jerseys as they celebrate their progression from the Academy programmes to the PAFC Academy.

To date, 26 players within Plymouth Argyle’s Academy — along with many others in the Pre-Academy — have progressed through our Football Development Programme. This includes current scholars Seb Campbell and Joe Mwaro, who both started their football journeys with Saints Southwest before progressing into the Academy scholarship programme. With Seb recently becoming Plymouth Argyle’s youngest-ever goalscorer on his debut, this is clear evidence of our ability to develop and nurture top talents into elite-level footballers. This partnership creates a clear pathway for others to follow in his footsteps.

Words from Plymouth Argyle

Phil Stokes, Academy Manager at Plymouth Argyle, commented:

“We are really pleased to officially welcome Saints Southwest as a partner of the Academy. They have played a hugely important role in developing players across the region, and the fact that so many of our current Academy players have come through their programme highlights the quality of their work.

This partnership will only strengthen the opportunities available for young players and further enhance the pathway into professional football here at Argyle.

Our Academy recruitment strategy over the last five years has been very clear to identify and develop the best players across Devon and Cornwall. Strengthening our partnership with Saints Southwest will only enhance this, particularly by expanding our recruitment across South Devon, Exeter, and into Somerset.”

Current scholar Seb Campbell, who was part of Saints Southwest from the age of six, added:

Seb Campbell: From a young player with Saints Southwest to a record-breaking debut, showcasing determination and passion on achieve his goals.

"My time with Saints Southwest was really important in helping me develop both as a player and a person. The coaches were brilliant, and I always felt supported in enjoying my football and improving my game. Looking back, it gave me the foundation and confidence to take the next steps with Argyle, and I’m really grateful for that experience.”

Seb's Saints Southwest pathway is inspiring for all young Footballers:

• Soccer Centre

• Development Centre

• Academy Programme

• Playing an age group up

• Plymouth Argyle Academy.

A Step Forward for Saints Southwest.

Mike Berry Head of Coaching at Saints Southwest added:

Current Plymouth Argyle Scholar Joe Mwaro posing for the camera when Saints Southwest visited Southampton FC as U10's.

''As Head of Coaching, I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved as an organisation not only in terms of player development but also in how we support the personal growth of every young person who comes through our programme.

This partnership is a fantastic step forward and allows us to work even more closely with Plymouth Argyle to provide enhanced opportunities and a clearer pathway for players in our region.

What This Means for Staff & Programme Delivery

As an official partner, our staff will benefit from:

• Regular CPD opportunities with Plymouth Argyle Academy staff

• Access to the PAFC Player-Centred Coaching Curriculum

• Opportunities for shared coaching workshops, online sessions, and development initiatives

• Fixtures vs Argyle Academy and Pathway teams

• Access to ticketing opportunities, shared events, and more

Saints Southwest Academy players experienced a day at Home Park a tournament organized by PAFC Academy. An unforgettable day for the players playing in the stadium.

This partnership is a testament to the brilliant work being done across Saints Southwest from grassroots right through to our development centres & Academy programme, we should all be proud of the role we continue to play in shaping young footballers in our region.

Thank you in advance for your support and continued commitment as we take this next step forward together. If you have any questions or ideas, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

At 16 Years and 279 Days Seb becomes Plymouth Argyle's youngest ever goal scorer. A proud moment for everyone at Saints Southwest, especially those involved with his journey.

Somerset U11's enjoy a day of team building and learning at Home Park, soaking up the atmosphere of a professional fixture.