Xcel Performance Coaching have announced that recruitment for their NxtGen programme is now live.
This programme is designed for footballers aged U16 to U21 for the 2025/2026 season. The NxtGen programme provides a blend of additional training, competitive opportunities, and high-profile events, structured to complement players’ existing club commitments.
Footballers will benefit from multiple training sessions, showcase fixtures, and events that provide not only technical skill and tactical development, but also invaluable exposure. Since its inception, Xcel has built a reputation for offering players unparalleled opportunities, including 3 successful international tours.
Notable past highlights include attending the inaugural Free Kick Youth Cup in St. Lucia in 2022, as well as appearances at the prestigious Surf Cup International in Salou in both 2023 and 2024, and also the Royals Pre-Season Cup near Reading in 2024.
These events have delivered memories and opportunities for young talent from the Isle of Wight. In 2024, Xcel players faced off against 2 professional teams – Riga FC from Latvia and UD Las Palmas from Spain – giving them a taste of the international football scene, and opportunity to test themselves against potential professionals of the future.
Jacob Toms, Director of Xcel Performance Coaching, has said:
“We are absolutely thrilled to launch the NxtGen recruitment for 2025. This programme offers aspiring footballers from the Isle of Wight the chance to test their abilities on a global stage, with the international competitions we attend featuring top-tier players and clubs from around the world, providing an incredible platform to showcase the talent we have right here on the Island. It’s an eye-opening, once-in-a-lifetime experience that blends world-class football with personal growth.”
Toms added:
“Having competed in international beach soccer events, coaching a number of teams at international tournaments, and organising these tours over the years, I can attest to the lasting effects and impact they have on participants. With tours and experiences of this nature, helping to fuel ambition, elevate aspiration, and open doors to a wide range of footballing opportunities that many may not have previously imagined.”
Footballer Kyle Kilroy said:
“The standout part of the trip for me, being one of the older lads there, was playing amongst a really talented set of younger lads with huge potential to go far and this was an opportunity for them to show their capabilities against some really strong sides. The standard of football out there is one of those things you just have to experience for yourself. “

Footballer Flynn Jackman added:
“I enjoyed testing myself against some very good and tough sides, including the challenge of playing Las Palmas. The standard of the tournament, teams and facilities surprised me, and was something I didn’t think would be as high and hard! I’d definitely recommend the experience to any player considering the opportunity for 2025.”

Xcel Performance Coaching are inviting businesses, organisations, and individuals to sponsor either a team or an individual player through their NxtGen programme.
Jacob Toms says:
“Sponsorship offers a unique opportunity to invest in the next generation of talent while gaining positive exposure for your brand or business. Whether you’re a local company passionate about giving back to the community or a larger organisation looking to align with youth development and high-performance sport, becoming a partner of our NxtGen programme brings mutual benefits.
“Each sponsor will be recognised across our digital platforms and match-day materials, with opportunities for branded kit placement, social media mentions, and collaborative content. Most importantly, you’ll be joining a programme that genuinely inspires and provides opportunities to talented young people.”
For more information or to register, contact Xcel Performance Coaching directly via their Facebook page or by email at [email protected].