Saints Southwest

Plymouth Argyle Academy are delighted to announce Saints Southwest as an official Academy partner, strengthening a relationship that has already played a significant role in the development of young footballers across the South West.

The partnership reflects the shared commitment of both organisations to provide opportunities for talented players to progress within a high-quality football environment.

Currently, 26 players within the Argyle Academy have come through the Saints Southwest Football Development programme, underlining the strong pathway that exists between the two. Current scholars Seb Campbell and Joe Mwaro are two who have both progressed from grassroots football through to the programme at Home Park.

Phil Stokes, Academy Manager at Plymouth Argyle, said: "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."

Reflecting on his own journey, Campbell, who was part of Saints Southwest from ages 6 to 11, said: "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."

Mike Berry, Head of Coaching at Saints Southwest, added: "We are extremely proud of our long-standing relationship with Plymouth Argyle and the number of players who have progressed through our programmes into the Academy. 

“Our focus has always been on developing players in the right way and giving them the technical, tactical, and personal foundations they need to succeed. This partnership is a fantastic step forward and will allow us to work even more closely with Argyle to provide opportunities for aspiring young footballers across the South West."

The new partnership will see Saints Southwest continue to play a vital role in identifying and developing talent across the region, working closely with Academy staff to ensure young players are given the best possible opportunities to succeed.