Armidale will welcome aspiring young footballers from across the region in July when the 2026 George Cowie West Ham United Football Selection Camp comes to the city for a two-day program at Rologas Sporting Fields.
The camp, to be held on 13-14 July 2026 and supported by Armidale Regional Council, will give boys and girls aged seven to 16 the opportunity to train under coaches from English Premier League club West Ham United FC.
The program will feature football development coach George Cowie and West Ham Director of International Programs Brian Glover, with additional West Ham coaching staff delivering training and talent identification sessions.
Up to 100 participants from across the New England region and other regional areas are expected to attend. The camp is designed to develop player skills, confidence and pathways within the sport.
Players identified during the Armidale camp will have the opportunity to attend the Australia National Camp on the Gold Coast in September 2026. Selected players may then be invited to take part in a UK development tour, including opportunities to visit London and participate in training and development activities with West Ham United.
Armidale Regional Council Mayor Sam Coupland said the camp would provide valuable opportunities for young athletes in regional communities.
“The camp represents a major opportunity for regional young athletes to access international football pathways without leaving their local community, while also bringing significant visitation and economic benefits to Armidale during the school holiday period.”
“It’s fantastic to see a club of West Ham United’s calibre recognising communities like ours here in Armidale as genuine talent pools. Opportunities like these not only inspire our young players but also show that you don’t have to be in a capital city to chase big football dreams.”
George Cowie said the program aimed to inspire young players and create genuine opportunities for talented footballers across regional Australia.
“Regional communities are home to so much football talent, and we are excited to bring the West Ham United experience to Armidale. This camp is about developing players, building confidence and opening doors to future opportunities in the game,” Cowie said.
West Ham Director of International Programs Brian Glover said the club looked forward to engaging with young Australian players and strengthening its connection with grassroots football in regional communities.
“West Ham United is committed to identifying and supporting young talent internationally, and we are delighted to be visiting Armidale as part of this exciting development program,” Glover said.
For more information, visit: https://georgecowiefootball.com.au/portfolio/armidale/
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