ACADEMY co-ordinator Steve Hale is hoping to produce the next Paul Stonehouse when Swindon College continue their blossoming partnership with Blue Square Premier outfit Forest Green Rovers.

Hale, who oversees six hours of professional coaching at the College every week, believes next year's crop of youngsters can follow in the footsteps of the German-born forward.

Stonehouse, 20, progressed through the Swindon College scheme to become a regular in the Forest Green first team, and Hale is hoping to unearth another gem when the academy opens its doors again in September.

He said: "There's a pathway for these young players that wasn't there before.

"If they show the right attitude, desire and ability there's no reason they can't be playing for a club like Forest Green Rovers.

"Paul Stonehouse came through the system and these lads can emulate what he has achieved.

"There's a first team manager at Forest Green in Jim Harvey with a track record of bringing young players on.

"If they do well on the scheme I can push them to train with the first team and then who knows what they can achieve?"

On Saturday mornings the players represent Forest Green in the South West Counties Youth League, while they also compete for the College on Wednesdays against other local colleges in the Three Counties Youth League.

But for Hale, the prospect of competition at Conference National level is the major incentive offered by the scheme.

He said: "We're trying to get some of the Forest Green first team players and staff down to the odd training session so the players can see what they're aiming for.

"We're looking to play at least two games a season on the main pitch at the New Lawn. Not just pre-season friendlies but games during the course of the season.

"I see great potential in this scheme and I'm looking forward to developing it."

Though he is fully focussed on the football, Hale recognises the importance of the academic side of the scheme, with all recruits required to complete a college course alongside their sport.

"Education is very important to me," he said.

"I've spoken to the Wilts FA and hopefully all the lads will get chance to go through their level one coaching badges in the first year of the course.

"That gives them something to fall back on. It's important for me that they do just as well in their education as their football.

"We're looking to hold trials in April and again in July before we pick the squad."

Anyone interested in the scheme should send their name, address, date of birth, preferred playing position, and any relevant playing experience to: Steve Hale, Academy co-ordinator, Forest Green Rovers FC, Nympsfield Road, Nailsworth, Glos, GL6 OET or email stevehale41@hotmail.com.