Former bosses Harry Redknapp, Sean O’Drsicoll and Tony Pulis were in attendance as Bournemouth’s under 18s won 5-0 against Wigan Athletic.
This was the first game since the Cherries’ academy status was increased to category two.
What has happened to the Bournemouth Academy?
The under 18s now take part in the Professional Development League.
Prior to this they had been competing in the EFL Youth Alliance Leagues.
They had dominated these leagues for season upon season.
Following an audit from he Professional Game Academy Audit Company, the improvement was confirmed.
The Cherries’ chief executive was excited for the future: “This exciting development is the latest positive step for us.
“Lots of hard work been put into achieving category two status from staff in the academy and across the club, and is an example of what we are striving to achieve here.”
These developments were confirmed in July and this week, the first game of the new era was played.
Why were Harry Redknapp, Tony Pulis and Sean O’Driscoll at the game?
Redknapp’s grandson, Harry Jr, was in the starting line-up, adding further acclaim to their family name.
Adding to history for the Cherries as Harry managed the club to a league title.
He was joined at the game by former players and Bournemouth managers.
O’Driscoll and Pulis joined him as they watched the historic game.
Pulis started his 28 year managerial career with the Cherries, being promoted to the managers role in 1992.
O’Driscoll is the clubs third highest appearance maker and also managed the club for six yes.
He is praised for his role as manager, being appointed in 2000 with the club in financial trouble.
Three historical figures at the Cherries, it is great to see them getting involved with the youth set up at the club.
With Harry Redknapp Jr playing his part for the Under 18s, hopefully we can see these legends as a regular fixture and bring more eyes to the team.