The Albion is offering teenagers the chance to compete for the Seagulls while studying for a sports diploma.

Brighton and Hove Albion’s official charity is now recruiting for their BTEC education programmes which will allow teens to study sport courses while representing the Albion in their brand new 11-a-side youth team. The new team will play in the under-19 Development League Southern Premier Division.

Students can also compete as part of their existing futsal side who will compete in the Football League Trust South-East Division while also competing in the Soccer AM Cup and National finals.

Both teams will complete against the likes of premier league sides such as Chelsea and Tottenham.

Participants must be aged between 16 and 18 and will train a minimum of three times a week under the guidance of EGA qualified coac-hes.

The courses are run by Albion in the Community (AITC) and include a level 3 BTEC diploma in sport – which is the equivalent to three A Levels – and a Level 2 diploma in sport which allows access to the BTEC upon completion.

The Level 2 requires two GCSES at C and above the Level five GCSEs at C and above.

Academic sessions will be held at the American Express Community Stadium or the American Express Elite Performance Centre in Lancing.

Tryouts for the new season will be held over the coming weeks with the first being for the 11-aside team at performance centre in Marsh Barn Lane, Lancing, on May 27 between 1pm and 3pm.

Prospective futsal squad members will need to go to Brighton University Sports Centre on June 7 between 1.30pm and 3.30pm.

Anyone who would like to be considered for either squad should get in touch with AITC by emailing Sarah McAdam at info@albioninthecommunity.org.uk or calling 01273 878 260.