Footballers are pass masters!
YOUNG BLACK CATS MAKE THE GRADE AS THEY SAVOUR EXAM SUCCESS
They used to say a footballer’s brains were in his feet ...
But two of Sunderland AFC’s rising stars have dispelled the old myth in showing they have talent off the pitch as well as on it by passing their A-levels.
Up-and-coming duo Alex Storey and Adam Bale are both part of the Black Cats’ Under-23s squad.
Both have been studying at East Durham College’s Sixth Form, ED6, while continuing to develop their football skills on the training ground.
And while both still hope to make the big time with Sunderland AFC, they can also reflect on their academic achievements.
Centre-back Alex gained A-levels in both mathematics and physics while midfield colleague Adam recorded A-level passes in English language and English literature.
Their exam success was hailed by mentors at both club and college.
Elliott Dickman, Sunderland AFC Under-23 Team Manager, said: “As a club, we value and recognise the importance of education and we were happy to support and encourage Adam and Alex with their studies.
“It was a challenge to combine A-level courses with their first-team football programme, but both players have demonstrated a high level of commitment and motivation.”
Don Peattie, Head of Education and Welfare at the club, added: “We chose East Durham College as a learning provider because of their excellent reputation and the outstanding quality of their teaching and learning, particularly with level 3 programmes.”
Jacky Owen, Assistant Principal at East Durham College said: “We were privileged to teach the two young players for the past two years, both of whom showed a high level of maturity and dedication to their education.
“We have followed their progress on the pitch and wish them the very best in their footballing careers.
“However, should they choose to change direction it is very pleasing to see that they now have the entry requirements for university, where I am sure they will be equally successful.”
East Durham College’s SixthForm,ED6,offersarange of A-level subjects across arts, humanities, maths and science.
For more information on ED6 and the facilities available, people can visit www.eastdurham.ac.uk/a_levels.