Throughout lockdown, the AFC Youth Academy have undertaken a nine week home learning lockdown programme that focuses on self improvement and aims to develop better thinkers and movers.

Head of Academy Coaching, Gavin Levey, said:

“We built on the first lockdown programme, by adding new features and content based on a thorough evaluation and listening to what the Academy players wanted to achieve.

“Along with the sport science and technical content, each week has a theme focused around the individual and we aim to bring as much personality out of the players as possible. This is where we need to create a safe environment for the young players to step out their comfort zone and some of the work that has been produced by every single player has been outstanding. Again our projects have some simple guidelines, but No Rules! This promotes creativity as you can see from some of the motivational videos along with some of the personality videos from earlier in the lockdown.

“Before every task we have a workshop which helps develop the understanding of each topic and we utilise video call breakout rooms where the players have open discussions with their teammates before reporting back to the group. This all helps us reinforce their understanding before designing their own videos where we can then provide some feedback.

“The ‘Becoming a Professional’ series proved really popular again and we really dig deep into the journey of each player. Every single player has been first class and these sessions have been educational and inspiring for both players and their families.”

You can watch the videos which have been posted to the AFC Youth Academy Twitter page below. There are some fantastic videos from the young Dons, keep up the good work!

Over the coming days we’ll share some of the work achieved behind the scenes by the Academy players of all age groups. #FridayMotivation #StandFree ⚪️ pic.twitter.com/BxDBXBuGEF

— Aberdeen FC Youth Academy (@AberdeenFCYouth) March 12, 2021

BE THE BEST YOU CAN BE! ⚪️

Take 2 minutes of your time to listen to this unique self reflection video by U12s (2010) Captain, Mason. #FridayMotivation #StandFree #Inspire pic.twitter.com/zo99OpqxuP

— Aberdeen FC Youth Academy (@AberdeenFCYouth) March 12, 2021

‘NEVER GIVE UP!’

Collectively we are very proud to help bring out the personalities in the youngsters throughout the Academy. Well done to Aaron for sharing his thoughts on his own football journey.#StandFree ⚪️ pic.twitter.com/MzhQaB0MoF

— Aberdeen FC Youth Academy (@AberdeenFCYouth) March 13, 2021

‘NO EXCUSES!’ ⚪️

Max’s video highlights his desire to practice and improve. An excellent video on what he needs to do to be the best he can be. #StandFree ⚪️ pic.twitter.com/AYkdL1esga

— Aberdeen FC Youth Academy (@AberdeenFCYouth) March 13, 2021

PEER MOTIVATION – TEAM-TALK

Jacob from the U11s delivers an inspirational team-talk for all of his team-mates. #StandFree ⚪️ pic.twitter.com/MWBwYL7Puy

— Aberdeen FC Youth Academy (@AberdeenFCYouth) March 13, 2021