FCV Grace Dieu is the men’s first team attached to the Academy, formed in 2023 to provide a direct pathway for academy players into competitive men’s football in England. The club was established to create a clear and professional environment where talented players from the academy can progress into senior football. The team is managed by Shane Clarke, who is also the Academy’s Head of Player Pathways. His role helps bridge the gap between academy football and the men’s game, supporting players as they transition from academy training and youth fixtures into first-team football.
Since its formation, the club has grown quickly and already achieved back-to-back promotions. Last season, the team won the league and cup double. Building on that success, the club continues to strengthen its long-term vision for player development. In the following interview, Shane Clarke discusses the club’s pathway from academy to men’s football and how our first team is creating clear opportunities for young players to progress and perform at the highest level.
We provide a clear pathway from the academy to men’s football, allowing every player the chance to progress at their own pace. This pathway begins with our academy teams, moves into our Step 9 Development Squad, and leads into our Step 6 First Team.
The Development Squad competes at Step 9 of the English football pyramid and acts as a bridge between academy football and the first team. The squad is coached by Jack Hobbs, who works closely with academy players as they take their first steps into senior football.
Players in the Development Squad gain valuable experience by:
Playing competitive matches against adult opposition
Developing their physical, technical, and tactical skills
Preparing for the demands of higher level football.
Since the Development Squad was created last year, 32 current or former FCV players have represented the team, showing how important it is for players progressing from the academy.
Our First Team, FCV Grace Dieu, plays in Step 6 of the English football pyramid and provides the highest level of competitive football within the club.
Since the First Team was formed:
36 former or current FCV players have represented FCV Grace Dieu
6 players have moved on to professional contracts
6 players have represented their national teams
These achievements show the strength of the pathway and the opportunities available for players who develop through FCV.
We spoke with current Academy U23 player Nathan Linden, who is part of our Elite Football Program and regularly features within the First Team environment. In the interview, Nathan reflects on his journey at FCV, the support he has received throughout his development, and what it is like stepping up to compete at Step 6 level with FCV Grace Dieu. He also shares insight into the demands of First Team football and how the coaching and environment at FCV has prepared him to perform at the highest level within the club.
A clear pathway from academy football to men’s football
Competitive teams playing in the English football pyramid
UEFA A Qualified Coaching
A professional environment focused on player growth and success
FCV Grace Dieu and the FCV International Football Academy work together to provide players with the best possible chance to develop, compete, and progress in the game.
If you’d like to join FCV International Football Academy and be part of the pathway into men’s football with FCV Grace Dieu, please contact us today or send an enquiry using the form below.
A member of our team will be in touch to discuss your options, answer any questions, and guide you through the next steps.
