Graduation day for Hibs’ youngsters at club’s Training Centre

There were celebrations at the Hibernian Training Centre last
week as the Development Squad’s academic success was marked.

In addition to the Hibernian Academy Development Diplomas,
the players received St Andrew’s First Aid certificates after their recent
course in Sports Injury Response.

Josh Campbell, Kane O’Connor and Kevin Dabrowski also attained
their Modern Apprenticeship in Achieving Excellence in Sports Performance (SVQ
Level 3).

The respective certificates were presented by Hibs’ Chief
Executive, Leeann Dempster, who spoke of the club’s pride in the efforts made
by the Academy graduates and the satisfaction felt in watching them develop as
young men as well as footballers.

Head of Football Operations, George Craig said: “That is
just not us. We will always want to help our young players be the best they can
be and to put in place an innovative and effective programme for them.”

Education and Welfare officer Seán McPartlin said: “They are
a great group of lads who are a credit to the club and their families. It’s a
pleasure to work with them.

“The programme this year has covered theory and practice –
with everything from a jet pilot training officer to nutrition apps and drills
for strength and conditioning.

“The players have been able to understand the great array of
expertise and commitment that is present in the Hibernian Training Centre and
the staff here are owed a huge debt of thanks for their support of the
education programme and the players individually.

“It was good to see a large number of staff present for the
awards. Aside from George and Leeann, it was greatly appreciated that Paul
Heckingbottom and Robbie Stockdale were able to attend.

“It’s a sign of how much the whole club values the efforts
of our youngsters.”