22-year-old defender Jordy Van Der Heyden attended our five day training and trial camp from Belgium back in August 2020 and was scouted by semi-pro side Hartley Wintney!

Speaking with Jordy on his football history he explained: “Back in Belgium I played for a number of clubs VK Liedekerke, Woluwe Zaventem, Racing Mechelen and VJ Baardegem.”

After playing a high level in Belgium, we were curious as to why Jordy chose to travel to the UK and attend one of our events. He told us: “I first attended a one day trial but unfortunately nothing came from it.”

“Then after following our page on social media I felt that it was just the right time to give the five day camp. I felt like I had to do it!”

Jordy’s feeling obviously paid off. He played brilliantly throughout the camp and caught the eye of a scout from semi-pro side Hartley Wintney.

We asked Jordy what the process was following finding out that he had been scouted, he told us: “When I heard the news that I had been scouted I was very happy.”

“The scout then got in contact with me and I returned to the UK for my trial.”

“The club were great, they picked up from the airport, took me to the trial from my hotel and the team have been extremely welcoming and I am delighted to say that I have now signed for Hartley Wintney!”

With the news of his signing, we asked Jordy what life is like with the club, he explained: “I stay on campus with the team and it is great. Everyone is so friendly and you are never alone which helps after moving from another country.”

“I am currently training with the U23’s and I have played in one friendly for them but I am yet to feature in a league game just yet.”

“My hopes are to keep growing as a player to one day break into the first team. I am sure if I continue working hard and stay focused I can hopefully achieve this.”

As someone who attended our camp from overseas looking to find a team in England, we asked Jordy what advice he has for players like himself. He told us: “You just have to go for it. You cannot be scared to leave home or your country. If you truly want to play football you have to be fully committed.”

UK Football Trials would like to congratulate Jordy and wish him the best of luck with Hartley Wintney.