The Wellington Phoenix have unveiled a finishing school that's designed to prepare promising youth players for professional careers.
Eight players aged 20 or under will be in the first intake of the programme, and will train with the senior squad, while playing in the ASB Premiership and pursing academic goals.
Co-owner Gareth Morgan says it's all about providing a gateway for young players into the professional ranks.
"If we can spread goodness from the professional team coaching staff across the top of the amateur ranks then we'll lift the skill level hopefully at the top of our amateur game."
Morgan says players will graduate when they're offered contracts with the Phoenix, or elsewhere.
