The National League have granted 22 Clubs an Academy Licence for the inaugural National League Football Academy season.

Starting on September 11th, the 2019/20 campaign will be formed of two regional divisions- twelve Clubs in the South and ten in the North- and Clubs will participate in an additional cup competition later in the season.

Head of Player Development, Gary Owers, said: “The National League and National League Youth Alliance is committed to Youth Development.

"As part of our ongoing strategic approach we have implemented a scheme for Clubs to demonstrate their own commitment to raising and maintaining standards in this area.

“The licencing process involved Clubs meeting required criteria set by The National League.

“The aim of a National League Football Academy is to provide an environment and player pathway which allows Clubs to develop and produce more and better home grown players”.

NATIONAL LEAGUE FOOTBALL ACADEMY NORTH

Hartlepool United

York City

Guiseley

FC Halifax Town

Alfreton Town

AFC Fylde

Solihull Moors

Boston United

Chester

Darlington

NATIONAL LEAGUE FOOTBALL ACADEMY SOUTH

Chippenham Town

Dartford

Hampton and Richmond Borough

Maidenhead United

Bromley

Woking

Weston Super Mare

Boreham Wood

Dover Athletic

Sutton United

Oxford City

Aldershot Town

Darlington’s director of youth, Paul Thomas, said; “This is just the first step to putting Darlington FC back to where we and the fans deserve to be. We’re immensely proud to get the academy licence, and all the staff who helped to gain this award should be motivated to continue the good work we have set out to achieve this season.”