PLAYERS who have been rejected by professional clubs' academies are being given a second chance.

ExPro Academies, who are headed by former Halifax Town player Neil Ross and ex-Bradford City scout and Brighouse Town manager Mark Brier, are holding their inaugural football academy session at Brighouse Town's Dual Seal Stadium on Sunday (2-5pm).

The Academy is offering players the chance to train and play at a decent level under the gaze of club scouts and recruitment officials.

Alongside the football, ExPro has also partnered with local businesses and colleges, which offer work experience and apprenticeship opportunities.

The Academy, which already has 36 registered players from under-16 to under-18 teams and under-19 to under-21 teams, are seeking players aged from 16 to 21 who can work for 20 hours a week with the Academy staff.

These hours will be taken up by game time, video replay, phases of play, technical time and strength and conditioning sessions, while teams will play twice a month against other local academies and semi-professional sides.

In terms of work opportunities, there will also be networking events, career days and recruitment agents to find an apprenticeship or a full-time role within a local 'sponsor' company.

Players aged under-16 to under-18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Further information is available from Ross on 07583-168037 or neil@exproacademies.co.uk.