The SFA 20/20 Development Centre started again in August and is now in its second year in Aberdeen. The programme has been designed to develop elite players at the under 11’s and 12’s age bracket and create a clear pathway to the SFA Performance School based at Hazlehead Academy.

There are currently 26 players who take part in the Friday evening session at Spain Park, Banks O’Dee, travelling from an area covering as far as Banff to Stonehaven. All players were selected following a successful trial and play for various teams such as Aberdeen FC Youth Academy, numerous Grass Roots Clubs and one player from AFC Ladies.

Scottish FA Community Coach Scott Duncan said: “The sessions have been going well so far this term with the key focus on improving all the Players ability in 1v1 situations, developing individual technique through Micro Sessions working in small groups and improving the players awareness of options in different area’s of the field through possession activities and small sided games.

“It is an additional session for all the players involved and very much looks to complement the good work already going on at the respective Clubs of the players.”

As an added bonus players from the centre were also given the opportunity to play small sided games on the pitch at Pittodrie at half time of the recent AFC v Motherwell game. This was a memorable experience for all involved.

Aiden Leonard aged 10 who plays for Lewis United said: “I like the SFA 20/20 training because you get more practice and I really like doing the Micro Sessions.

"It was an amazing experience to go on the pitch at Pittodrie. My heart was beating really fast before I was away to go on the pitch. My favourite part was when I came out the tunnel and the fans were singing, it was amazing!”