Statoil is now the exclusive Aberdeen Football Club ‘Talent Partner’ with the emphasis specifically on the future development of elite youth players through the AFC Youth Academy. The Statoil “Heroes of Tomorrow” sponsorship concept supports talented young people, not just in sport but also in culture and education to help them achieve their ambitions. The Statoil Young Talent and Talent of the Month awards are awarded to players who show an exceptionally high standard of talent during academy training sessions and matches at club and international level. In October 2016 the winners were:

Under 12 player, Aaron Reid is October’s Statoil Young Talent for the individual progress and the impressive performances he has made during the month.    Aaron’s determination to work hard both physically and technically have seen him earn this award, having been a stand out performer in the October games against Rangers, Hibernian and Dundee United.  He played every minute of these three games and contributed to the team’s performances with 11 goals, whilst adding to his already impressive goal tally for the season.    Under 12s Coach, Scott Duncan spoke highly of Aaron’s recent performances, saying “Aaron has really kicked on this season and is showing his ability to take on board information and apply it on the pitch both at training and in matches.  The defensive side of his game and determination to help recover possession for the team is another strength he has developed and I’m sure he will relish the challenge to build on his successes in October.”

Ethan Ross from the Under 15 squad has been awarded the Statoil Talent of the Month for October.   After playing well for the Scotland Under 15 squad at the end of September he has continued his fine form in October playing consistently well for Aberdeen FC’s Under 15 squad while displaying excellent technical skills and forward play.  These performances earned Ethan a step up to the U17 squad for their Club Academy Scotland match against Fife Elite on the 24th of October.   Under 15s Coach Mark Emslie said “ Ethan’s work ethic in training and games has been first class. Through his creative dribbling skills, awareness and energy he has produced top class performances in the month of October and thoroughly deserves this award.”

Ethan Ross from the Under 15 squad has been awarded the Statoil Talent of the Month for October.   After playing well for the Scotland Under 15 squad at the end of September he has continued his fine form in October playing consistently well for Aberdeen FC’s Under 15 squad while displaying excellent technical skills and forward play.  These performances earned Ethan a step up to the U17 squad for their Club Academy Scotland match against Fife Elite on the 24th of October.   Under 15s Coach Mark Emslie said “ Ethan’s work ethic in training and games has been first class. Through his creative dribbling skills, awareness and energy he has produced top class performances in the month of October and thoroughly deserves this award.”