The deal, which will see the University's logo adorn the Saddlers Under-18s home and away kits, further strengthens the relationship between the club and the institution and will see both working together in a variety of ways.
Walsall Chief Executive Officer Stefan Gamble said; "We have enjoyed a very good relationship with the University for some time now and I am delighted that they have decided to sponsor our academy for the forthcoming season. I look forward to working with Chris and his team moving forward."
Walsall Academy Manager Graham Biggs commented; "We have always had a very good relationship with the University of Wolverhampton. We have had an ongoing partnership, with them having interns here, supporting the curriculum and using their facilities over the last few years. This year we have been lucky enough to have the University sponsor the youth team, which is a great deal for both us and the University.
"Chris Sellars has become a close friend, he comes in and delivers sport psychology talks to our boys and parents and he has been at a few of our parents’ evenings. I had the privilege of going to the University last year to give out an award which just further strengthened our relationship with them."
Dr Chris Sellars, the University’s Deputy Director of the Institute of Sport and Head of Outreach and Development, added; "It is really exciting for us. We have been working with the football club for a few years but this is a chance for us to extend that relationship for the benefit of both parties.
"We have got plenty of students who want to learn within a performance environment and we have now got opportunities to both support the players but also create opportunities for our students. It means we will be able to strengthen our curriculum, provide access to applied practice and deliver components here at the club."
Not only will the partnership benefit the University and its students, but also the Saddlers’ youth team. Under-18s captain Tom Leak welcomed the news and said; "Being able to learn off people who want to come into the industry, and being able to help them learn, is good for both sides involved.
Not only will the partnership benefit the University and its students, but also the Saddlers’ youth team. Under-18s captain Tom Leak welcomed the news and said; "Being able to learn off people who want to come into the industry, and being able to help them learn, is good for both sides involved.
"Being able to train footballers in a gym is different to helping someone who just wants to bulk up. We are doing it because we have to strengthen ourselves in our specific sport. I am really looking forward to learning from the students who come in."