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This week saw two Harris Academy Orpington Sixth Form pupils sign contracts with professional football clubs, both of whom studied with us through our partnership with Kinetic Foundation. Tosin Olopade joined Burnley while Ralfi Hand joined Charlton Athletic becoming Kinetic’s 51st and 52nd signings to professional clubs that have been involved in their academy programme.  

Adam Flemming, Kinetic coach and Harris Orpington liaison for the academy, had this to say about the two boys: 

“Tosin settled well into school being one of the last players to join the programme. He worked hard in all lessons and constantly got positive feedback from teachers for his attitude and overall manners. In the games he played for Kinetic, he was a standout performer for defensive displays and communication to his backline. I’m ecstatic that his trial at Burnley was successful and wish him the very best on the next step of his journey”  

“Ralfi is probably one of the most technically gifted players I have worked with, but he doesn’t rest on that, he’s a hard worker too who loves a big tackle. I think that’s what separates him from most. All his qualities remind me of Steven Gerrard. He’s got a wand of a right foot; he’s a tireless runner and does both sides of the game well. He’s a lovely kid and Charlton have a hell of a character joining them. Good Luck on the next stage of the journey, and I hope to see him breaking into the first team in the future.” 

As a registered charity, Kinetic Foundation adopt a holistic approach to develop each young person as a ‘whole’ rather than from just a technical or tactical component. Alongside their excellent football provision, they deliver a volunteering programme, mentoring scheme, mental health support pillar and employability workshops on career planning. Together we’re able to offer an individualised, innovative football and education programme for 16-18 year olds. 

Mr Carey Said:

"Harris Academy Orpington is incredibly proud of Tosin and Ralfi’s incredible achievement.  This is testament to their hard work and the support offered by the Academy and Kinetic Foundation.  I am looking forward to tracking their future careers and wish them all the success moving forward."

We wish both Tosin and Ralfi the very best for the future and look forward to seeing how they progress on their journeys! 

You can keep up to date with what’s happening at Kinetic Foundation by following them on their social media channels: 

• Instagram - @Kinetic_Foundation 
• Twitter - @Kinetic_Coach  
• Tik Tok - @kineticacademy 

https://www.kinetic-foundation.org.uk/