Philip Walter, Aged 10
We first met a 10 year old Philip Walter at our trials in Birmingham last season. He got scouted by a premiership team on the day, but faced some obstacles and has overcome them to his great credit to sign this season.
We asked Phil to share his story to help inspire players looking to get a pro club opportunity this season. "After my trial at the premiership club, I was told I was not quite at the required level. In my disappointment I cried and questioned myself - was I ever going to be good enough? So I picked myself up and trained and worked harder. Then I had a serious injury to my right knee with eight weeks in a cast but I didn't let it hold me back - it made me more determined. I still trained with my cast on but on my good leg.
Once the cast was off I trialled again with UK Football Trials and they gave me back my confidence. A few weeks after the trial I was given a chance to trial for Junior Blues at Birmingham City Football Club. I was successful and am now playing for them in the NERF Junior Premier League. It's now onwards and upwards hopefully and thanks to UK Football Trials for all their help and support . Never let anything hold you back - IT'S NOT THE SKILL, IT'S THE WILL TO SUCCEED and the right attitude. Thank you once again UK Football Trials, Harry Price, Darran Jones and all the team."