Thu Mar 10, 2022 3:38 pm
Joe Ledley Football Academy looks to the future...
Joe Ledley has a particularly keen interest in the development of young Welsh players as he has just launched the Joe Ledley Football Academy.
The 35-year-old retired last year, having made close to 550 appearances in a 17-year career with Cardiff, Celtic, Crystal Palace, Derby County, Charlton Athletic, Newcastle Jets and Newport County.
Now in tandem with his media work and studying for coaching badges, Ledley hopes his academy can help unearth some stars of the future.
"This is why I want to get involved in developing Welsh players and give them an opportunity to reach their potential," he said.
"For me being involved in the game for a number of years, I think it's important to give something back.
"It's important, especially with what's been going on in the world the last few years, that kids are active and going out socialising with other kids.
"It's giving something back to a sport which gave me some great memories, so we're going to look to go into schools, set up summer camps and academies, which will give kids the opportunity to play football and enjoy it - all ages, boys and girls. It's exciting.
"I'm going to dedicate a lot of time to it, which is vital. It's not there to make money - it's just a pleasure to see kids interacting with other children and putting smiles on their faces."