Olly – 11 Years Old – Midfielder | On Trial with Oxford United 

At just 11 years old, Olly is already experiencing a remarkable football journey, combining strong grassroots roots with opportunities at academy level following his attendance at UK Football Trials. 

Olly’s story begins with a deep family connection to football. He plays for Saints FC, a grassroots club coached by his dad and originally run by his grandfather. After his grandfather sadly passed away, the club was re-established by the family in his honour — a legacy that continues to grow and clearly plays a big role in Olly’s passion for the game. 

Alongside this, Olly also plays at a high level with Slough Town FC in the JPL, giving him regular exposure to competitive football. Having started playing at the age of six, he has steadily developed his skills and understanding of the game as a midfielder. 

Looking to take the next step, Olly attended a UK Football Trials event in Hayes, after his family discovered the opportunity online. The experience proved to be a major turning point. 

Following the trial, Olly was contacted directly by Oxford United’s Head of Recruitment, who invited him in for an initial two-week assessment, with the potential to extend it into a longer trial period. 

That opportunity has now developed even further. 

Olly is currently in the middle of an eight-week trial with Oxford United, training three times per week and competing in matches on weekends. Now into his fifth week, he continues to be assessed in a professional academy environment. 

The experience has already been hugely valuable. 

“The coaches were very informative and gave lots of guidance and constructive feedback,” his mother explained. 

Beyond the training, the level of football Olly is now exposed to has been a major highlight. 

“He has had the opportunity to play against a good standard of football, including teams like Aston Villa, and we are even travelling to Manchester for a game against Manchester City.” 

These experiences are exactly what academy football is about — testing players against top opposition and helping them adapt to higher standards. 

“The opportunities have been amazing for him, and the coaches and staff at Oxford have been very welcoming and friendly.” 

For Olly and his family, attending UK Football Trials was a key step in unlocking this opportunity. 

“Absolutely — this has been an amazing opportunity and experience for Olly, and one we wouldn’t have had without attending UK Football Trials.” 

With the trial still ongoing, Olly is now focused on continuing to perform, learn, and make the most of every session. 

The final outcome is still to be decided, but regardless of the result, the progress he has made and the experiences he has gained already represent a significant step forward in his development. 

From grassroots football with a strong family legacy… 
to competing in the JPL… 
to now training and playing within an eight-week academy trial at Oxford United — 

Olly’s journey is a great example of how opportunity, combined with the right attitude, can open doors at a young age. 

And with several weeks still to go, this is a story that is very much still being written.