Hullavington goalie in running to win Football League contract
1:34pm Friday 7th September 2012 in Latest News By Staff reporter
Talented amateur footballer Harrison Ellis has been shortlisted in a nationwide competition to win a professional playing contract with a Football League club.
Goalkeeper Harrison, 18, from Hullavington, will now take part in the first-round trials of Samsung’s Win A Pro Contract that could see him sign up for either Swindon Town or Leyton Orient.
More than 5,000 players from all over the country entered Win A Pro Contract – and Harrison is already through to skills testing sessions.
Last year’s winner Chris Smith, was a student before he signed for League One Swindon Town in February. Chris made his first team debut against Bradford Town in May. He said: “When I entered Win A Pro Contract I was just one of the thousands of players in the competition who dreamed of playing pro football. My dream came true.
“This year, for the first time, there are two clubs involved. So there are two pro contracts to be won. I wish every player the best of luck.”
Swindon manager Paolo Di Canio said: “The Samsung Win a Pro Contract competition offers an amazing prize. But it will not be an easy journey for the players who have entered. They will have to work very hard to earn a chance here.”
Orient manager Russell Slade added: “Becoming a professional footballer is a demanding process. This competition will be very tough in terms of fitness, as well as skill.
“The players who have made it through to the first-round trials will need to give it their all if they want to go on live the dream.”
Win A Pro Contract hopefuls take part in a series of trials and full matches watched by club scouts and the two managers. The two winners will be chosen in January 2013.
To follow Harrison’s progress in the competition please go to: www.facebook.com/samsungfootball
