A new educational home for teenaged student athletes will begin to develop Canada's future talent this all, when The Hill Academy opens its doors to its first class in September.

The Hill Academy, with its facilities based in the Orangeville area, aims to be the best educational facility for student-athletes in North America. The Academy is collaborating with elite coaches, athletes, trainers as well as educators to give its student-athletes a leading edge in their development both in sport and in the classroom.

The Hill Academy is devoted to the academic, athletic and social development of student-athletes. "Until now, Canadians have always been relying on the U.S. system to get student-athletes to the next level," said co-founder Peter Merrill.

"We believe that the expertise is already here. We have recruited a highly credentialed group of Canadians who will provide an athletic and academic experience unparalleled in North America."

Founders Farell Duclair, a former Canadian Football League player, and Merrill, an experienced educator and athlete, saw an opportunity to be a catalyst for change and growth in the fragmented Canadian academic and athletic system.

Merrill's sons Brodie and Patrick, both accomplished professional players in the National Lacrosse League, will operate the lacrosse component for The Hill Academy, which also offers specializations in hockey, basketball, volleyball, soccer and golf.

The school's unique learn-to-learn approach offers a complete educational platform to develop student-athletes, linking the disciplines of athletics and academics. This allows each individual to develop at the proper pace to maximize their full potential.

The Academy will prepare today's student-athletes for fulfillment in advancement to post-secondary institutions and ultimately assist in launching their future.

The Academy will offer a full curriculum to studentathletes in grades 9-12. Beginning in September, it will offer classes to student athletes in Grade 12 and a post-graduate year called "The Breakaway Year."

This post-graduate year will focus on raising the athletic and academic profile of student-athletes to open doors for the future.

The Academy will host an Open House this Sunday at 12:30 p.m. at the admissions office, located at 59 First Street in Orangeville.

To arrange a visit to the Open House, for more information on The Hill Academy or for registration details, please visit www.thehillacademy.com or call 941-4100.