The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Dundee United’s youth academy in good place after fans seal funding
Tam Courts has praised Dundee United fans for helping secure a bright future for the club’s youth academy.
United have announced work has begun on the £300,000+ first phase of their “Academy campus project” at Gussie Park.
The club is installing a new Fifa Quality Pro standard all-weather surface, new fencing and enhanced coaching and spectator facilities.
They hope to complete works early next year.
Dundee United Supporters Foundation (DUSF) are contributing £100,000 towards the costs of the development.
That comes after their Covid cashflow injection in June 2020 was reallocated by the Tannadice side towards the academy.
And Courts, who now has a £20-a-month subscription with DUSF, has praised the supporters.
“We get phenomenal support from bodies and associations like the Dundee United Supporters Foundation,” said Courts.
“That happens because these guys are passionate about the club and want to support us in any way they can.
“But it’s also because they have a lot of confidence that the academy is the future of the club.
“They are playing a key role in that future with their financial support.
“Every pound we receive from them is well-spent and well-intentioned.
“It will be about developing players of the future for Dundee United.
“We’ll do anything we can to provide a better service to our young players. But we also want to strike the balance between providing a service and keeping them hungry.
“When they come into a first-team environment they are going to have to have that hunger like Kieran Freeman or Declan Glass. This is exciting for the club and I’m delighted DUSF are playing a part.”
Academy director Andy Goldie believes a redeveloped Gussie Park will give youngsters a place to call “home”.
“The last three years have been focused on building an infrastructure and culture,” Goldie said.
“The redevelopment of Gussie Park will provide an environment they can call home and maximise their potential.
“In the shadow of Tannadice, the location of Gussie Park not only inspires our young players but helps us celebrate the history of Dundee United.
“And the next generation are looking to emulate the success of the legends and graduates who learned their trade on the same pitch.”
Phase two will incorporate education rooms, a physical performance suite, office space and changing rooms.
“We are extremely grateful for the unwavering support of Dundee United Supporters’ Foundation members,” added Goldie.
Ged Bell of DUSF said: “It is great news the club have decided to develop Gussie Park as it cements our home at Tannadice for the foreseeable future.”
“The foundation’s policy on funding is that it will go into a bricks-and-mortar building project, added DUSF’S Martin Manzi.
“That will be a tangible part of our football club forever.”