Ian Milligan commented: "With Tameside College now in place as our education partner for the next five years and Dave Sullivan recently appointed as the new academy head, it’s tremendous to now have the backing of such a significant local business as Smurfit Kappa.
"The senior management team at Smurfit Kappa have really bought into what Stalybridge Celtic are doing with the academy, where we are providing local 16 to 19-year-olds with the opportunity to develop their football and education prospects. This extra investment helps us to take the next step in improving our academy programme."
Lynne Case, general manager of Smurfit Kappa, added: "We believe passionately in the importance of supporting our local club and helping the academy players realise their dreams. Smurfit Kappa Stalybridge feels extremely proud to be associated with the players and the club."
For any players interested in joining the Stalybridge Celtic Academy and following in the footsteps of Darius Osei and Alec Mudimu, two recent success stories, they should e-mail community development officer Mike Smith at [email protected]
Celtic are recruiting 16 to 18s for next month and Mike can provide full details about the academy along with new educational partner Tameside College. Pre-season training is under way at Woodley Sports Village.