CHERRIES have had their academy level improved to category two, following an audit by the Professional Game Academy Audit Company (PGAAC).

Currently Cherries’ development squad’s only real taste of competitive football is in the Premier League Cup and Hampshire Senior Cup.

But the move up in categories will see Cherries compete in the Premier League’s Professional Development League, the second-tier of under-23s football in England.

The change will also see the under-18s partake in the southern section of the Professional Development League, marking a step-up from the EFL Youth Alliance League that Cherries tended to dominate in recent seasons.

Cherries chief executive Neill Blake commented: “This exciting development is the latest positive step for us, with Bill continuing his plans to invest in and develop all aspects of the football club.

“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.

“Following the integration of our women’s team, this is another crucial step for us in growing every area of AFC Bournemouth.

“We can now look ahead to continued success and development for the academy and the whole club.”

Sam Gisborne, the academy manager, also shared his joy, as well as crediting Joe Roach, who has recently left the club after a long association.

“This is great news for the academy and the whole club; we are really looking forward to taking this next step,” he explained.

“I’d just like to say a massive thank you to all academy staff, past and present, for their hard work.

“Also, a special mention to Joe Roach, who deserves a lot of credit.”

Cherries’ development squad continue their pre-season campaign with a trip to National South outfit Weymouth this weekend, after starting the preparations for the new season with a 2-1 win over Poole Town on Tuesday.