The first step to a place on the VSI Scholarship programme is a recommendation from an Academy Coach or Welfare Officer. They should contact us directly. For VSI updates and all our latest news, send us your details and we’ll keep you posted.
Chance to shine
VSI's scouts and coaches are always on the look out for new talent to join the academy in Rio Maior. Over the last few weeks Paul Simpson, VSI's Head Coach has been running week long trials for 19 boys from the UK, Hungary, Guinea and Portugal.
The players are assessed on physical, technical, tactical and mental aspects of the game. During the trials the boys were able to demonstrate their skills when they joined VSI's students in matches against Sporting Lisbon, the Chinese Select XI and Leiria.
Ian Wright was at the academy working with the VSI students in his role as mentor during some of the trials. He commented, "it is great to see young players coming to the academy for trials".
Paul Simpson is currently making his final selections, and is looking forward to welcoming the successful trialists to Rio Maior for the start of the season in August. He said, "each year VSI are looking to improve the quality of the squad. The players, who were invited for a trial, performed at a good level during their week. When players come on trial to VSI it isn't just about their technical ability on the pitch, they need to demonstrate that they have the right ...Read more
Testimonials
Shaun Wright Phillips
I think VSI is a great project as it gives young talented footballers, who may have been released, a second chance in the game. Not everyone develops at the same age or pace, therefore VSI recognizes that, and allows players to grow and mature to fulfill their full potential.
Stephen Warnock
I didn't make my league debut till I was 21 due to injuries so a lot of my development was from the age of 19-21. I realise some players need more time to develop and VSI gives players a great opportunity to do this.
Ian Wright MBE
I signed pro when I was 23 and, more than anyone, I know that young lads are often released too early, many at 16. VSI gives them the chance of a big future in the Premier League.
Mark Hughes OBE
VSI provides fantastic opportunities for young footballers to experience a totally professional environment in which to improve as a player. Not only will you have top coaching in a fantastic training complex, you will also have access to a unique mentoring scheme which allows you to gain advice and benefit from the experience of managers, coaches and players who have all worked at the highest level. If you have the opportunity to join VSI , grab it with both hands!!!
Danny Collins
I didn't turn professional until I was 21, I thought that my chance of becoming a professional footballer had gone. I kept on working hard and hoped I would get another opportunity, thankfully it came around. The opportunities for a scholar at VSI are extensive, and with the quality of staff and mentors to support the development of the scholars, they have every chance of realising their dream of becoming a professional footballer.
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Latest News
Latest VSI Team Results
| 25-04-2012 11:00 | ||
| VSI Team | 4 : 0 | Belenenses |
| 18-04-2012 20:00 | ||
| VSI Team | 2 : 2 | Alcanena |
| 13-04-2012 20:00 | ||
| VSI Team | 2 : 5 | Leiria |
| 11-04-2012 17:30 | ||
| Chinese XI | 1 : 1 | VSI Team |
| 05-04-2012 11:00 | ||
| Sporting Lisbon | 1 : 1 | VSI Team |
| 31-03-2012 17:30 | ||
| VSI Team | 1 : 1 | Fazendense |
| 31-03-2012 15:30 | ||
| VSI Team | 2 : 0 | Cartaxo |