AFC Emley manager, Darren Hepworth, is already well into planning for the new Northern Counties East League season.
The previous campaign may have ended only three weeks ago, but he has already started re-building his squad for next year, by looking at local talent.
Hepworth has been delighted with what he saw in a trials day.
“There was some real good young talent, Huddersfield lads who had a fantastic attitude and worth ethic, and each one of them did themselves proud,” he said.
Twenty four hopefuls, all under 21, were put through their paces before completing a number of basic drills.
“There were five or six lads who were really impressive; it was clear they’d had some very good coaching,” he said.
“They had the makings of stepping up into a higher standard of football, with the proper coaching and fitness work.”
He is looking forward to welcoming a number back to pre-season training at the Welfare Ground.
“This is about building the infrastructure of the club for years to come,” he explained.
“In reality people want success today, and I’m hoping for a good season. I think success will be judged on many levels, one of which is how well we’ve attracted young local talent to the club, and we’ve made a great start at that.”
Hepworth has appointed Stuart Dawson, Joe Howson and Patrick Piercey to the backroom.
Dawson, of Edge Sports Analysis, will analyse performances.
Meanwhile, former Emley player Howson will work with the reserve side, and Piercey (from league rivals Handsworth) will be responsible for player development.
