Academy director Stephen Torpey's arrival heralds an exciting chapter in the ongoing evolution of the Brentford Academy, signalling a commitment to progressiveness and excellence in youth development.

Torpey, a seasoned coach with 22 years of experience, brings a wealth of knowledge and a forward-thinking approach to his new role.

His extensive background, including a range of coaching roles at both Liverpool and Manchester City, coupled with representing England at youth level as a player, underscores his dedication to nurturing young talent.

In expressing his enthusiasm for joining the Bees, Torpey emphasised his excitement at the chance to take on the role: "It is a massive opportunity. I am pleased to be here and eager to contribute to the club's vision. We want to be admired as the most caring and progressive football academy in the world."

Torpey's vision aligns seamlessly with the ethos of the club, as he aims to instil a culture of belief and accomplishment within the academy.

Drawing inspiration from his experiences with the Cityzens, where he witnessed the transformative power of progressive coaching, Torpey is determined to propel the academy in west London to new heights.

"It's about us identifying high potential staff to work and support our players, we want to cultivate a 'we can do' mentality and ethos, ensuring that our players not only excel on the field but also off it,” Torpey explained.

Under Torpey's leadership, Brentford's Academy is poised to embrace innovation and differentiation in its approach: "We have to be disruptive. Our club has been built on doing things differently and pushing boundaries. I want to lead that message within the academy."

The academy's renewed focus on quality over quantity, coupled with plans for a state-of-the-art facility tailored to the needs of young players, underscores Brentford's commitment to holistic development.

Reflecting on his initial impressions of the club, he expressed gratitude for the warm welcome he has received: "The togetherness and respect that is shown reflect not only on the staff but on the club. I genuinely feel the Brentford culture and values are felt by me and my family.

“I am committed to maximising the potential of our players and ensuring they are equipped with the skills and mindset to succeed at every level."

Torpey's dedication to excellence extends beyond the pitch. With a postgraduate diploma in elite coaching and a degree in academy management, Torpey combines his extensive experience with a commitment to ongoing learning and development.

"There is a blank canvas in terms of our operation as an academy. It's not only about doing things better but also about doing it differently,” he said.

 “We need to be disruptive in the way that we conduct ourselves, we need to challenge the status quo and make sure that we push the boundaries on certain things.”

And the 43-year-old’s emphasis on disruptive innovation highlights his commitment to being different.

"This is an exciting opportunity for us and for new members of staff and players," Torpey remarked. "Our club has been built on doing things differently and pushing boundaries, and I want to lead that message within the academy.

"I want us to work as a staff with a smile on our face because culture and happiness are what will help us get to where we need to; the caring part of our purpose also works with staff so they can perform each day.

“We have some great plans and ideas around our games program and our foundation phase model, as well as our recruitment strategy. The attention to detail and the way we use our statistical analysis are all key.

"We are also building a new facility, and we are planning accordingly so that we have a set-up fit for young people. We are going to be building a facility conducive to the whole academy, a place that feels right and takes care of their needs.

“We’re actually in the beginning phase, so we can be creative, and we’ve got some ideas around how we can deliver on those ideas going forward to make it impressive for when our young people walk through the door.”

Brentford's academy may have closed its doors in 2016 but, with Torpey now at the helm, it is primed to write a new chapter of progressiveness and success.