Centre Of Excellence History and Contacts
The Centre of Excellence was created at the club in 1993 and the programme since then has supported and produced several promising youngsters into the world of professional football and the conveyor belt of talent continues today.

Under the previous guidance of Geoff Harrop, Adrian Webster, Neil Partner, Micky Cook and now first team coach Joe Dunne the programme produced some outstanding young talent, and this will be continued under the guidance of Steve Downey (Head of Youth) and Marc Tracy (Centre Development Officer) for the future.

Players such as;
- Mark Kinsella (Sold to Charlton, Captained them to Premiership, Played for Rep of Ireland)
- Lomana Trésor Lualua (Sold for over £2 million to Newcastle United)
- Dean Morgan (played over 50 games for Reading in the Premiership)
- Karl Duguid (played over 380 games for Colchester before moving to Championship side Plymouth)
- Greg Halford (sold to Premiership Reading for £2.25 million)
- Garry Richards (played for Colchester in the Championship)

have made a great success of their careers following their early education with the U's, whilst

- John White (played over 100 games for Colchester)
- Dean Gerken (played over 100 games for Colchester)
- Medy Elito (played 11 fixtures for Colchester + England International at U17s, U18s & U19s level)
- Anthony Wordsworth (after a handful of appearances just signed a new three year contract)

continue to flourish in the Colchester United first team.

With many other young players waiting in the wings, from the Youth Team and below, the future at Colchester United continues to be in a healthy position.

This season will see the youth department continue to support and develop young players to reach their full potential under the guidance of our fully qualified staff members.

Full Time Staff Members 
- Steve Downey Head of Youth
- Mel Jeffries Youth Team Coach
- Marc Tracy Centre Development Officer
- Sharon Webb Youth Administrator
- Faraz Sethi Youth Team Physiotherapist 
- Aron Barnes Player Development Officer

To get in touch with the youth programme please contact Sharon Webb using any of the following methods:

- Telephone 01206 755144
- Email Sharon.Webb@colchesterunited.net