Emi Martínez was in attendance at the Aston Villa’s Academy’s Goalkeeping Induction Evening last week.
The club’s World Cup winning ‘keeper was joined by first team goalkeeping coach Francisco Javier Garcia for the event at Bodymoor Heath.
Every goalkeeper from Under-8s through to Under-16s attended the evening, meeting Emi and seeking advice from our No.1.
The goalkeepers had a glove fitting opportunity from HO soccer, while Academy coaches delivered a presentation to the parents about the programme.
Mark Naylor, assistant first team goalkeeping coach, said: “We were delighted to welcome both Javier and Emiliano to our goalkeeping induction evening.
“This is an annual event where we showcase our achievements as a department. Over the past five years we have had Premier League squad appearances alongside international recognition for numerous Academy goalkeepers.
“The evening displayed our whole club goalkeeping philosophy and the current pathway into the first team. The club has invested heavily into the department, Mark Harrison and Javier Garcia have shown great support in putting this structure in place.
“All the Academy goalkeepers met Emiliano and had individual photos to take away. It was a memorable evening for everyone involved.”
Goalkeeper Staffing Structure
Francisco Javier García - First Team Goalkeeping Coach
Mark Naylor - Assistant First Team Goalkeeping Coach
Michael Pearce - Under-21 Goalkeeping Coach
Steve Grinham - Under-15 to Under-18 Goalkeeping Coach
Sam Wilson - Under-9 to Under-14 Goalkeeping Coach
Adam Paintin - Pre Academy Goalkeeping Coach
