England Colleges football squads selected for 2021/22

Following a tough selection process, AoC Sport is delighted to announce the final squads for the 2021/22 AoC Sport England Colleges men’s and women’s football teams.

The Phase One trials were held in October at Bishop Burton College, Newcastle-under-Lyme College, Oaklands College and SGS College. More than 400 players were nominated from nearly 100 organisations across the country.

A Phase Two trial was held at Newcastle-under-Lyme College in November, where around 100 students were trialled to find our two squads of 24 players.

ECFA Men's Squad 2021/22

ECFA Women's Squad 2021/22

Congratulations to all those selected and thank you to all the colleges for hosting the trials at their wonderful venues.

Thanks must also go to all the parents, players and college staff for attending and/or nominating players, and to all the England Colleges coaching staff who assisted throughout the process.

Trials process

Men’s Head Coach Darin Killpartrick said: “The trial phase is always a difficult and subjective process. The standard this year was very balanced and there were hardly any differences in players’ abilities, making the process incredibly difficult and challenging.

"Congratulations to those that made the squad. However, to those that were just short please stay focused on your journey, as it is only a few people’s opinion based on your limited playing time at the trials. Stay positive and keep progressing.”

Women’s Head Coach Keith Boanas agreed that it was ‘extremely tough’ to select the squad this season. He added: “The trials went exceptionally well despite staff being stretched with other commitments and it was down to everyone pulling together. My thanks to all our staff including Jenny Hinton, Becky Mayo, Charlie Bill, Melanie Copeland, Matt Wright, and others plus our travelling referees.

“Players should be very proud to have been chosen and to get to wear the ECFA badge with the three lions. It can only enhance and improve your ability to put yourself in a better position to progress in the game.”

The selected squads are now preparing for their first fixture of the season, which will take place at St George’s Park on 15 (women) and 16 (men) December against Independent Schools.

To see the full fixture list and for more information on the programmes please visit the website.