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Camden New Journal - by STEVE BARNETT
Published: 12 June 2008

Pro Touch Academy line up against Nottingham Forest’s youth players last summer – they are now set to face Forest again along with other big clubs

Summer tour to be a big kick

Academy footballers set to tour Denmark and face big-name English clubs

YOUNG footballers are preparing for a sizzling summer as they gear up for a fixture list that any professional player would be proud of.
Players from the Pro Touch Soccer Academy (PTSA) will continue their quest to make it in the beautiful game with a series of friendlies against youth teams from professional clubs, including Reading, Queen’s Park Rangers, Nottingham Forest and MK Dons.
It will be a huge test for the Academy, which was launched just over two years ago in a bid to help disadvantaged players fulfil their dreams of making it in the often harsh world of football.
But first the talented team of Camden and Islington stars will travel to Denmark to take part in the prestigious Dana Cup.
The team, who play their homes matches at either Regent’s Park or Market Road, will then return home to face academy sides representing clubs from the Championship and Division One throughout July.
PTSA director Ash Rahman revealed that the boys were looking forward to the challenges that await them.
He said: “The players know that if they are going to make it as professionals they have to get used to playing big games on a regular basis. They have been training hard, and have already been fortunate enough to play against a number of professional sides.
“Now they have to raise their game and prove that they have learned from their experiences and become a stronger side.
“The boys are really excited about what the academy has planned for them over the summer. First they’re going to get the chance to represent Camden and Islington in an international tournament. For most of them it will be the first time they have travelled to another country to play in a competition so the excitement running through the camp is electrifying.
“Then when they get home, they are going to face youth teams from a host of top professional clubs. It promises to be a great experience of everyone involved with the Pro Touch Academy.”
The Academy has been backed by two top football stars, who have made it further than most in their bid for soccer stardom.
Camden Town’s Anthony Wordsworth and Islington’s Ryan Smith have become beacons for talented young players after signing professional contracts with their respective clubs, Colchester United and Millwall.
In a recent question-and-answer session, the midfield maestros praised the Academy and gave future stars tips and advice on how they can improve their chances of making it within the professional ranks.

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