Bermuda Players Involved With Ilkeston In UK
Following in the footsteps taken by Bermuda’s Rai Simons, several young Bermuda footballers are currently enrolled at the Ilkeston FC Academy program in the United Kingdom.
Simons helped the Ilkeston Academy to a long run in the youth FA Cup before being called into the Ilkeston FC 1st team, eventually earning a transfers to league one Chesterfield where he signed on professional terms at the end of last season.
The Bermuda Hogges, through Paul Scope’s contacts in the UK, have developed the partnership with Ilkeston FC to provide a pathway toward professional football for Bermuda’s promising players.
Rai Simons has been the most successful beneficiary of the linkup to date. The positive showings from other Bermuda players such as Antwan Russell and Lejaun Simmons helped to spark a more keen interest in the islands player pool, leading to the present crop.
There are five players currently at the club enrolled in educational courses as a part of the full time academy program; Jahquille Hill, David Jones Jr., Tehvan Tyrell, J’Nai Butterfieldd Steede and Paul Douglas.
The players are currently playing with the academy teams and are called into training and matches with the first team and reserves.
Bermuda trio David Jones Jr, Tehvan Tyrell and Paul Douglas
Feeling proud for all 3 of these Bermudians. OF THIS SOIL!!! Great job, guys!!