Filip Marschall has been selected as Aston Villa’s 2020/21 Premier League Scholar of the Year.
The young goalkeeper had an exceptional season on the pitch, earning international recognition for England and helping the club to win the FA Youth Cup.
But his exploits off the pitch also contributed to winning the Scholar of the Year award, with club staff recognising his development across all areas of his scholarship over the two years, including attitude to education, professionalism in the role and personal development.
Academy goalkeeping coach Mark Naylor was full of praise for Marschall.
He said: “Filip displayed maturity beyond his years during a unique season. His ability to self-manage and take ownership of his development during the lockdown gave him the platform to have a progressive second year of his scholarship.
“Filip’s desire to improve in all areas sets him apart from others. He has a driven mindset that allows him to push himself in order to progress. He is constantly looking for that extra percent that will improve his performance both on and off the field.
“During the 20/21 season he has had some fantastic learning opportunities based on the consistency he has displayed in both his training and games programme.
“Filip continues to drive the standard for the group he is part of and sets the example with the way he behaves in any environment he is exposed to.
“Filip fully deserves this award for the discipline he has shown during a challenging time and for the progress he has made during his scholarship at Aston Villa Football Club.”
Paul Brackwell, Head of Academy Education, added: "Filip showed a very mature attitude and commitment towards his two-year A-level programme and displayed many ‘role model’ characteristics during this time. He was always punctual and coped very well with the number of online Teams lessons he had to do during the lockdown periods.
"Filip managed his time very well alongside his football scholarship, was a dedicated student regarding his academic studies and thoroughly deserved the award of Scholar of the Year for Aston Villa Football Club."
Congratulations, Filip!
