UK Football Trials are pleased to announce that Burnley Football Club have signed Goalkeeper Sam Hellawell to their academy, beating four other clubs to his signature.

The young shot-stopper attended our event in Manchester in April and was immediately picked out by the Burnley scout on the day, who made a call to the club’s Goalkeeper Coach and had a trial arranged within minutes.

Sam, 12, was invited to train with the club – who have recently enjoyed another solid season and secured their Premier League status for another year – and he also played in two matches against Sunderland and Middlesbrough.

Tom Reeves, Burnley Head of Academy Recruitment, revealed that Sam’s impressive displays in those games, coupled with interest from other clubs, left them with no other option but to secure his future at Burnley.

“We don’t usually sign boys that quickly but he was good in both games and we made the decision really fast,” Tom explained.

“We’re delighted to secure him, there were a few other clubs interested so we had to act really quickly. We sat down with the Goalkeeper Coach and decided that there was no point in wasting any time and to get the deal done.”

He added: “I liked the look of him straight away and I’m glad I acted so fast because a few other clubs were trying to get him in and have a look. Sam is a good size, a good shape and hopefully he will be with us long term.”

Sam and his family were invited down to the club’s training ground last Thursday, 11th May for the official signing but it still hasn’t quite sunk in for the new Burnley player, who was described as “shell shocked” by his Mum, Helen.

“A month ago he was playing for his local side and now he’s at a Premier League Academy,” she said, “he’s a bit shell shocked by it all really.”

Helen added: “We’re really pleased for him. Football can be quite ruthless at this age so we will enjoy this while it lasts. He’s just waiting for pre-season to come around now and he can’t wait to get going.

“The hardest part of the whole thing has been breaking the news to his teammates that he’ll be leaving them next season, but they’re all really supportive and happy for him.”

In the space of a month Sam has gone from playing for his local side and having no pro club experience, to playing in a Premier League Academy.

The sudden rise is testament to the hard work, desire and determination that he has put into his football and achieving his goals.

Helen said: “He enjoyed the UK Football Trial very much, it was his first trial in a pro environment of any sort, but he's really enjoying the ride, it’s been a fantastic opportunity for him.”

We wish Sam all the very best with his future and will continue to stay in touch with the family and the club.