Twelve-year-old Eryk Stypczynski is a name to watch. A commanding and mature midfield player, Eryk has been scouted by Cardiff Met after an impressive performance at the UK Football Trials event in Cardiff. 

A player with incredible versatility, Eryk’s preferred roles are in midfield — CDM, CM and CAM — but he can also slot in at centre-back or left wing, bringing structure, energy and tactical intelligence to every position he plays. 

“I’ve always loved football,” he says. “I started Little Dribblers at two and a half, then grassroots at five and a half, always playing up a year until I returned to my age group two years ago.” 

Eryk currently plays for Merriott Marvels U12, a local grassroots team who recently won both the league and the cup, while also competing at a high level in the Junior Premier League (JPL). He’s now transitioning from Saints Southwest Somerset to Yeovil Town, aiming to join a setup with a clearer pathway to professional football. 

He’s also had individual recognition over the years, being named Manager’s Player three years in a row, and Players’ Player multiple times at both grassroots and JPL level. 

“I train four times a week — two JPL sessions, one grassroots, and a session with an Academy Coach. After one of the JPL sessions, I do PT with a coach to work on my weaknesses,” he explains. 

That’s not all. Eryk is also a British Champion in kickboxing, recently earning his black belt and becoming the youngest in his club to achieve the rank — a testament to his work ethic and physical discipline. Though football has taken priority, he still trains in kickboxing once a week to maintain his fitness and sharpness. 

His education is equally strong. Now in Year 7, Eryk has already earned over 240 merits and received the Best Year 6 Student Award last year, alongside top marks in his maths and English SATs. 

It was this mix of drive, discipline, and natural ability that led to him being spotted at UK Football Trials. 

“A few days after the trial, we received an email from the Cardiff Met scout, inviting me to a trial with the academy. I was so excited.” 

Cardiff Met’s academy is a Category A programme in Wales, known for its excellent player development and professional structure — with strong coaching, performance analysis, strength and conditioning, and a proven record of progressing players to their first team in the Cymru Premier League. 

Eryk is now awaiting his trial, with high hopes and focus intact. 

“I’ve learned to never stop fighting for your dream. Even if you’re not scouted the first time, it doesn’t mean you’re not good enough. Keep improving and come back stronger.” 

His favourite moment at the trial? 

“Taking on players, showing my strength, creating link-up play, and helping my team win the match. And it felt great when the scout asked me what my name was — it meant I got noticed.” 

He first joined UK Football Trials after attending a summer camp, where he was impressed by the coaching and professional environment. 

“I would absolutely recommend UKFT. It’s a great opportunity for any player serious about going professional.” 

With the Cardiff trial on the horizon and unwavering commitment to his development, Eryk’s journey is just beginning. 

“My dream is to become a professional footballer — and I’m doing everything I can to make it happen.”