Story perspectives

Premier League Enhances Youth Development with New Standards

2/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Premier League's elite player performance plan (EPPP), introduced in 2012, aims to strengthen youth development by prioritizing education, mental health, and wellbeing for players from under-nine to first-team levels.
Academies must meet standards, including employing full-time psychologists and providing life-skills training.
The Premier League funds lower-category clubs and requires aftercare for players released from academies.
Research indicates that 88% of parents view the academy experience positively.

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Story summary

The Premier League's elite player performance plan (EPPP), introduced in 2012, aims to strengthen youth development by prioritizing education, mental health, and wellbeing for players from under-nine to first-team levels.
Academies must meet standards, including employing full-time psychologists and providing life-skills training.
The Premier League funds lower-category clubs and requires aftercare for players released from academies.
Research indicates that 88% of parents view the academy experience positively.