An incredible five students from one secondary academy in Barnsley have been selected to represent the local District Schools Football Team.

The selected students were presented with their Barnsley District Ties by Steve Gates, Chair of Barnsley School, at their school, Outwood Academy Shafton.

The five students that have been called up are Taine Clement, Lewis Woollands, Harrison Bashforth, Bradley Green and Joseph Mercer. The boys  will now follow in the footsteps of England international John Stones and represent the District team.

Cara Ackroyd, Principal at Outwood Academy Shafton, said: “We are so proud of Taine, Lewis, Harrison, Bradley and Joseph for their achievements. 

“We are delighted they have been selected to represent the Barnsley and District Schools Football team and it is a fantastic reward for their hard work and dedication.”

The District Schools FA aims to select the best young school footballers in Barnsley from year 6 through to Year 10 to represent their town against other school districts across the country. 

Virtually all professional footballers have represented their District Schools team, including Barnsley’s own England international defender, and Premier League champion, John Stones.

Along with the rest of those selected, Outwood students Taine, Lewis, Harrison, Bradley and Joseph were chosen after a four month long trial and selection process which involved hundreds of boys competing for a spot.

The squad tie presentation is a tradition that dates back to the post-war years and allows proud parents, staff and friends the opportunity to celebrate the achievement.

Another member of the Outwood Grange Academies Trust in Barnsley, Outwood Primary Academy Darfield, recently celebrated one of its children, Aston Adcock, being selected to the Barnsley and District Schools Football team.