Ten youngsters from the Spireites Centre of Excellence U16 squad have been taken on as part of the two-year Modern Apprenticeship Scheme at Chesterfield FC.

The new scholars join the seven remaining second year apprentices to form a squad of seventeen, which will again compete in the Puma Youth Alliance, North East Conference.

First Year Youth Scholars 2008-09

Youth team manager Dave Bentley said: "This year's Under 16 squad had some of the best crop of players that our Centre of Excellence has seen for years so we are quite excited about what they are capable of achieving."

Most of the youngsters have been with Chesterfield's Centre of Excellence from U13/14 age groups, whilst Sandy Moller and Chris Tingay have been with the Centre right through from the U10 age group.

Craig Clay has already shown his potential by being awarded the Player of the Year Award for season 2007-08, pictured above with the youth team squad receiving his award.

Second Year Youth Scholars 2008-09