The short answer
York City (League Two) runs a Category 4 academy, which means academy squads at Under-17 to Under-21 only. It doesn't register younger players, and there is no travel limit at those ages. The academy is based at Wigginton Road Training Ground, Sutton Road, York.
| League 2026/27 | League Two |
| Academy | Category 4 |
| Academy age groups | Under-17 to Under-21 |
| Academy base | Wigginton Road Training Ground, Sutton Road, York |
How far York City can recruit from
Under Rule 262 of the Youth Development Rules, a Category 4 academy can only register players who live within these travel times of its main training venue:
| Age group | Travel limit |
|---|---|
| Under-9 to Under-11 | No academy squads |
| Under-12 to Under-16 | No academy squads |
| Under-17 to Under-21 | No limit |
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Joining York City at 16
Because a Category 4 academy has no younger squads, York City recruits players who were released by other academies or were never registered with one. It can offer a scholarship to someone who isn't an academy player, or to an Under-16 whose academy has told them they won't get a scholarship (Rule 309). Many clubs also run post-16 college and BTEC football programmes through their foundation, which can lead to a trial.
Nearest other academies
Approximate straight-line distance between academy bases. Journey times by road will be longer.
| Club | Category | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Leeds United | Category 1 | 13 miles |
| Hull City | Category 2 | 27 miles |
| Bradford City | Category 3 | 28 miles |
| Doncaster Rovers | Category 3 | 35 miles |
| Middlesbrough | Category 1 | 36 miles |
| Barnsley | Category 2 | 36 miles |
Frequently asked questions
What category is the York City academy?
York City runs a Category 4 academy in 2026/27, with academy squads at Under-17 to Under-21.
How far can York City recruit academy players from?
York City can only register Under-17 to Under-21 players, and there is no travel limit at those ages.
Where does the York City academy train?
The York City academy is based at Wigginton Road Training Ground, Sutton Road, York.
Source: York City FC Academy | Transition (club) - Category 4 EFL Academy from 2026/27, aiming for Cat 3 in 2027/28 (2026 (spring; exact date not retrieved)); Academy scholars for 2026/27 announced (club) (2026); Training Ground Guru club profile: York City (Academy Category: Four) (undated profile (cites 2025/26 Academy Productivity Rankings); accessed 2026-10-29). Last checked 29 October 2026. Academy categories can change after an audit. If something here is out of date, email info@scout52.com.