AFC Bournemouth Academy Awarded Category One Status
AFC Bournemouth has been awarded Category One Academy status, marking a significant milestone in the club’s long-term football strategy and its continued investment in youth development.
The classification, the highest level within the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP), places the Cherries’ Academy among the leading youth development environments in English football and opens up access to a higher standard of competition across age groups.
From the 2026/27 season, AFC Bournemouth’s Academy will benefit from an expanded games programme against Category One opposition, greater access to Premier League and EFL competitions and enhanced development support across education, performance, medical provision and player care.
The new status is also expected to strengthen the club’s ability to attract, develop and retain talented young players and staff, supporting its ambition to create a sustainable pathway from Academy football to the first team.
Bill Foley, Owner and Chairman of AFC Bournemouth, said: “From the very beginning, our ambition has been to build a football club that can compete sustainably at the highest level, and a world-class Academy is central to that vision.
“Achieving Category One status within just four years of being in Category Three demonstrates the progress we are making both on and off the pitch.
“This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our Academy staff, players, families and everyone across the club who has contributed to this achievement. Their commitment has created an environment where young players can develop, thrive and aspire to represent AFC Bournemouth’s first team.
“While today is an important milestone, it is only the beginning. We will continue investing in our people, our facilities and our pathway, ensuring the Academy plays a vital role in the future success of the club for many years to come.”
Head of Academy Sam Gisborne described the award as a proud moment for the club and its Academy, highlighting the collective effort behind the achievement.
“Gaining Category One status is a significant milestone in the club’s history and is recognition of the commitment, hard work and ambition that so many people have shown over a number of years,” said Gisborne.
“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved, but we keep moving forward and we are not done. Category One just gives us an even stronger platform to achieve our goals, and it doesn’t change who we are or what we believe in.
“This was key for our football strategy as a football club. We now have access for our players to play against the best, and challenge ourselves week in, week out. We will be able to explore other exciting avenues to continue to develop our Academy too.
“Thank you to Bill Foley and Tiago Pinto, as well as everyone at the club, for all their support. We’re thoroughly looking forward to the challenge and what comes next.”
The award follows a rigorous assessment process across the Academy’s operation, including coaching, education, player care, performance, medical provision, recruitment and facilities.
With Category One status confirmed, AFC Bournemouth will now look to build on the platform as it competes at the highest level of youth development from the 2026/27 season onwards.
