A PHYSIOTHERAPY clinic has launched a new programme designed for youth sports clubs and academies to learn about strategies professional sports stars use to keep fit, strong and at the top of their game.

Harris & Ross, who have clinics based in Wilmslow, Altrincham, Manchester and Wigan, brought players and parents from the 8By8 Football Academy in Poynton to the Wilmslow clinic’s high-performance zone for an evening of football related presentations and activities.

Jeff Ross, clinic director at Harris & Ross, said: “Players are getting into high level sport earlier and earlier and, in football for instance, once signed to a club, youngsters are generally well looked after physically. However, there are lots of academy level players who are perhaps in one, two, even three premier league development squads training up to seven times a week and don’t have any support from a physical wellbeing, strength and conditioning perspective.

“This is where it is so important for parents and players alike to be mindful about safeguarding against injury and create their own support techniques and team.”

The youngsters heard talks from ex-Manchester City physiotherapist Dave Williams about how players should look after themselves physically, as well as Jake Miller who talked about his daughter Lara’s journey from local league girls football to her current place in the Manchester City under 16 squad.

It wasn’t all talk though, as the under 10s were also treated to break-out sessions and given practical tips on stretching techniques and dynamic warm-ups.

Alex Brown, head of 8By8, said: “We saw the football session as a great opportunity for the team to get an impression of how hard players have to work to actually become a footballer. Plus it demonstrated the fact that, whilst huge effort needs to come from the individual, having a great team around you is an integral part of going far in the game.”

Harris & Ross are welcoming applications from all youth sports clubs in the Cheshire area. To find out more contact info@harrisandross.co.uk or visit harrisandross.co.uk