The newly created development team has been formed to strengthen the player pathway at the National League club. It provides a bridge between junior teams, the U23s and first team.

To back the club’s youth development Oxford based PR and Marketing agency Fortitude Communications has sponsored the development team. Fortitude’s logo appears on the front of the shirts of the home and away kits of the team.

The team plays in the Hellenic League Division Two and the team has got off to a flying start securing nine wins out of 13 and scoring 50 goals. It has also qualified for the FA Youth Cup First Round Proper.

Kevin Squirrell, Oxford City FC Development Team Manger said: “The objective is to provide young players with an opportunity to learn from experienced coaches and develop themselves in a senior league. The ultimate aim is to develop players so they either progress into our first team or a senior team within local Oxfordshire football.

“We really appreciate the backing of Fortitude Communications; they’ve been so supportive. It makes such difference and ensures we could provide the team with kit.”

Justin Merritt, Oxford City FC Director added: “Creating the development team was an important part of our continued strategy to provide young people with opportunities and to strengthen our pathway. We also wanted to create the same structure and pathway for male and female players. It’s always rewarding to see local players improve themselves as people and develop careers. Fortitude understands the importance of this and the partnership is based on shared values.”

Greig Box Turnbull, Director of Fortitude Communications said: “We’re proud to support this exciting new part of Oxford City FC. Providing a strong support network for youngsters to help them progress makes such a difference and it’s something we believe in, so it was a good fit for the agency. We wish the team every success on-going.”

Fortitude Communications is an agency specialising in PR, marketing and video production, it was founded by former Daily Mirror journalist and Oxford United Football Club Managing Director Greig Box Turnbull.

Fortitude has clients across a range of sectors including sport, corporate, hospitality, property and healthcare. The agency provides a multitude of communications services including strategy, media relations, marketing, content management, copy writing, social media management, photography, video production, drone services and media training.