'A landmark moment' as Bournemouth academy granted Category One status

[Getty Images] Bournemouth's academy has been awarded Category One status in a development owner Bill Foley says "demonstrates the progress we are making", just four years on from being in Category Three. A club statement read: "The achievement marks a landmark moment in the club's continued development and reflects years of sustained investment, planning and commitment to providing the very best environment for young players to develop." Category One status is the highest within the Elite Player Performance Plan (EPPP), granting better opportunities for academy players to compete against the strongest opposition and supporting the development of homegrown talent into first team squad members. "The new status also strengthens the club's ability to attract, develop and retain talented young players and staff as part of its long-term football strategy," the club statement continued. Foley said: "From the very beginning, out ambition has been to build a football club that can compete sustainably at the highest level and a world-class academy is central to that vision. "While today is an important milestone, it is on the beginning. We will continue investing in our people, our facilities and our pathway, ensuring the academy plays a vital role in the future success of the club." Bournemouth underwent a "rigorous assessment process", which looked at every aspect of the academy's operation including coaching, education, player care, performance, medical provision, recruitment and facilities, to achieve their new Category One status.