Denbigh’s Football Academy Triumphs at Wembley: U19 CEFA League Champions

Students Shine as League Champions in Inaugural Partnership Year

Denbigh’s Football Academy students have been crowned champions of the EFL’s U19 Regional CEFA Football League, receiving their winners’ medals at Wembley before the recent EFL League One Play-Off final between Bolton Wanderers and Oxford United.

This prestigious accolade celebrates the remarkable season enjoyed by Denbigh’s Football Academy in their first year partnering with MK Dons Sport & Education Trust (MK Dons SET). This collaboration has provided Denbigh’s students, the leading Post-16 Football Education provider in the city, with a high-performance training and competition environment. Representing the Dons in the CEFA League, they competed against top EFL clubs such as West Bromwich Albion, Wolves, Derby, Port Vale, Shrewsbury, and Birmingham.

Balancing academic commitments with their football schedule, the students’ dedication and talent led them to a triumphant season, winning 13 out of 16 matches and scoring an impressive 50 goals. Notably, the majority of the victorious squad played two years above their age group, showcasing exceptional skill and maturity.

Emmanuel Tetteh topped the goal-scoring charts with 15 goals, followed by Olly Awujo, who netted 9 goals in just 8 appearances after returning from injury. Team Captain, Abdubasit Agberemi, expressed his pride, saying, “It’s been a really enjoyable and challenging season. With a small squad, we’ve had to stick together and work for each other. It’s a great feeling to win the League and amazing to go to Wembley for the presentation.”

Malcolm Lay, Denbigh’s Football Academy Director, praised the team’s hard work and achievements both on and off the pitch. “We are incredibly proud of this team who have worked so hard throughout the year and have been rewarded with success. Our partnership with MK Dons SET has had a positive first year, and the future looks bright with most of the squad staying for their second year. It’s been fantastic to see their individual development and their on-field success matched by their achievements in the classroom. Our graduates are moving on to coaching roles, apprenticeships, and prestigious universities.”

Denbigh’s Football Academy’s first-year success sets a high bar for future achievements, promising a bright future for its talented students.