Jake Maloney - Advanced Centre

Jake Maloney came along to Charlton Athletic Community Trust’s (CACT’s) Advanced Centre after being released from the U8 Pre-Academy group.

Jake had shown glimpses of potential but required more time to develop within a competitive football setting. During his time with the Advanced Centre, he played in games and took part in regular coaching sessions at Charlton Athletic’s Training Ground.

After spending two years developing his football skills within the Advanced Centre, Jake consistently impressed his coaches in matches against local private academies including the Charlton Athletic Academy.

Jake was offered a trial for the academy after four members of staff spotted his talent including CACT’s Senior Football & Sports Development Coach, Bradley Marshall.

During his trial he took part in games against Arsenal and Chelsea’s Academy teams and scored goals in both games. Unfortunately, Jake also injured his ankle ligaments during his trial.

Charlton Athletic physios were able to provide him with a recovery plan to get himself back on the pitch and after 4-5 weeks he was ready to start playing again. Jake was able to continue his trial following his recovery and received the exciting news that he passed his trial, becoming the latest recruit to the Academy teams.

Jake’s dad, Patrick Maloney, said:

“The training regime at CACT is structured and without pressure which is important for children’s development and Jake looked forward to his training sessions every week at the Advanced Centre.

“The coaches helped him to improve his game in a friendly and professional manner and Jake could see other players progress through the system which was encouraging.

“During his trial he got injured and CAFC physios gave him the same level of attention as they did to their other players which made me feel comfortable as a parent that he was in the right place. I feel confident that Jake is in the best place to help with his progression.”

Bradley Marshall, CACT’s Senior Football & Sports Development Officer, said:

“As you can imagine, Jake was very disappointed to be released from the pre-academy at u8. He came in to the Advanced Centre and settled in well but during his time with us over the last 9 months he has developed all areas of his game.

“The games he played against the academy were very good which resulted in him receiving an 8 week trial. I know during his 8 week trial he scored goals against Arsenal and Chelsea then unfortunately got injured, it was great to see him bounce back, finish off the trial and sign the contract, we are all pleased for him!’’

Josh Covill, CACT’s Football and Sports Development Coach, added:

“I started coaching Jake at the Advanced Centre at the beginning of September and from the get-go I saw that his attitude to learning and bettering himself as a player was brilliant.

“He continued to improve throughout his time with us and as time went on, he became one of the stronger players in the group and hopefully he will continue to develop in the academy and become an even better player.”

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