Harrogate Town AFC

Having come through the ranks at our Player Development Centre to now be playing in Paul Barker's U21 side this season, we spoke to Tom Johnson about his time at Town...



How long have you been playing for Town and at what age did you join the club?
I joined at U15 level so for the last three years now.

What first made you get involved with Harrogate Town's PDC?
I was looking for a new opportunity after leaving York, looked into Harrogate and saw they had the PDC, which I was interested in.

What was the best thing about being at the PDC?
The quality of the coaching and being able to progress through to the U17s and U19s.

How did the PDC coaches help you develop as a footballer?
The PDC coaches helped me develop as a player, in particular Josh Walsh who has helped me de­velop into a centre defensive midfielder.

Which three areas of your game do you think have improved most while at the club?
Range of passing ,leadership and pressing.

What are you hoping to achieve by playing in the U21 side this season?
I'm hoping to develop physically so I can compete in the U23s league, be a suc­cessful member of the youth set up and eventually to progress to the U23s.

What are your long-term ambitions in and out of football?
I want to pursue a career in competitive sports and sports coaching.

What is the best thing about being involved with Harrogate Town?
Playing for my local team who are progressing and having the opportunity to progress too.

What advice would you give to a player at the PDC wanting to break through into the U17s and beyond? I would advise players to listen to what the coaches are telling you, work hard, be dedicated and take every session seriously.

Our U21 side are back in action Monday 14th October with a trip to Tadcaster Albion i2i ISA (Blue), find out how they get on at @Harrogateyouth.

For more information on our youth teams and Player Development Centre email Daveriley@harrogatetownafc.com