We are incredibly proud of our year 11 student Jack Close, who has been selected to play football for North Yorkshire under 16s next season.
Jack, who’s been with us since year 7, started playing football when he was just six years old for Leyburn JFC. When he was 12 he moved to Boro Rangers with his coach Keiran Smith and played in the Teeside Junior Football Alliance (TJFA).
Disaster averted
Jack’s promising football journey nearly ended before it had begun when he fell seriously ill in May 2022. He collapsed during a county game, suffering from terrible pain in his legs. It transpired he had a virus that was attacking his joints. Thanks to Jack’s courage and determination, after four months of intensive physiotherapy he was back on the pitch and ready to play again.
Making the grade
In August Jack completed a referee course with North Riding FA, and is now a fully qualified ref. In September, following two trials for the Under 16s county his talent was spotted and he’s now set to play for North Yorkshire in the forthcoming season.
Level head
While his dream is to become a professional footballer, Jack is keeping his feet firmly on the ground. He takes his school work seriously and studies hard, with a particular interest in maths, business, and of course PE.
“I have been very lucky to be able to play so much football, which I love, and have made some great friends along the way,” says Jack. His parents couldn’t be prouder, adding, “Jack works so hard, training twice a week, refereeing and playing on Saturdays and Sundays. We will continue to support him as much as we can, although it costs a fortune in fuel!’
We wish Jack every success and know that he will achieve great things, whether on or off the field.
