16-year-old Striker Signs for Semi-Pro Club
Harry Rice, a 16-year-old striker, has signed with semi-pro side Farnborough Town FC following a successful trial in April.
A potent goal scorer, Harry racked up an impressive 26 goals in all competitions last season and continued his fine form at our event in West London earlier this year, leading to interest from the Farnborough scout.
Shortly after the initial contact was made, Harry was training with the club and featured in a few friendlies, his dad Ian explained.
“They got in touch and invited Harry to train for a week,” said Ian, “He got the chance to play in a couple of friendlies and then they said they would like him to sign for the club.
“He was thrilled and didn’t have any hesitation in signing with them, it’s a nice place with a nice people and a semi-pro cub is a good level to start at, he’s happy with it.”
Harry has described joining Farnborough as “a big jump”, given his previous experience only goes as far as county football – he currently plays for the County u18’s side – and school football, although his side were the Schoolboy Champions in secondary school.
The trial in April was the first time that Harry attended our events, and he didn’t even know he would be coming himself until shortly before the trial – it was a surprise booked by his mum.
Ian said: “UK Football Trials was the first time we’d been to anything like this and it just clicked, he was happy with how it went. He didn’t actually have that much time to be nervous for it as his mum booked it for a surprise.
“But it’s all going well now and he’s looking forward to the league starting in September.”
Speaking about Harry, Marc Wardley, Farnborough scout, added: “He’s done well and will be a good addition to our youth team, we’re delighted to sign him.”