Glasgow Clan recently announced the ‘Glasgow Clan Academy‘. A junior development programme based at the Braehead Arena, focusing on developing the fundamentals of ice hockey through their Learn-to-Play Programme. Aiming to be operational in October with players registered with Scottish Ice Hockey, it will initially be focusing on introducing new players to the sport but with the aim to be icing teams in the SIH junior leagues.
Following the announcement, we spoke with Clan Academy Launch Manager, Kevin McCoskrie regarding the new Junior Academy.
How did the formation of the academy come about?
“It’s been in our minds for several years as something we’d want to do, however the Arena, and the Club, have been through a lot of turmoil. Things like Covid and the landlord going bust led to uncertainty over the future of the arena.
Due to this, it never felt like the right environment for us to start anything in previous years. However now, with new ownership, huge investment in the arena, and a sense of stability, we felt the time was right to launch the Academy and give kids the chance to learn skills and enjoy hockey in a great facility.”
What are the short-term and long-term plans for the academy?
“Short term, we aim to get a solid structure and the platform for a great organisation established. We’ll focus on giving kids the chance to play, enjoy themselves, and develop the fundamental skills, with no immediate aspirations to start competitive teams. It’s all about giving kids a great experience.
Longer term, we’d look to be entering competitive league teams in various age groups when the time is right, but that’s at least a season or two away. Eventually, we’d like to see a fully formed Academy, with teams competing at every age group in Scottish Ice Hockey leagues – but we realise that will take time.”
Can you see the academy becoming a pathway up to Elite League level for juniors?
“Yes, it can be a pathway to Elite League level, and we hope in the future we can develop some home-grown talent for the Clan. However, it’s a pathway to other levels additionally, and I’m sure we’ll see players who start through our programme find routes into SNL and NIHL as a result of their Clan Academy grounding.”
How important do you think another junior team coming into the system is for Scottish Ice Hockey?
“From the interest, support, advice and collaboration we’ve had from other clubs, I would say the rest of the hockey community is looking forward to seeing a new organisation materialise. It can only be a good thing for the future of Scottish Ice Hockey, and we intend to play an active role in growing the profile of the sport and improving opportunities for kids to play hockey here in Scotland.”
How to Apply
The Clan are initially prioritising applications for players 4 to 12 years old to allow them time to develop within the sport but may be able to accommodate older ages if capacity permits. For more information on the new Academy please click HERE
