26th April 2024
A South Devon College student took to the pitch at Plainmoor last week in his debut league game playing for Torquay United AFC.
Jacob Wellington, 17, is studying Sports Coaching at the College, and has been working with TUAFC for three years.
Jacob stepped onto the hallowed turf as left wing and, during his time in the game, he assisted in setting up a goal, helping his team see victory with a 5-0 final score.
Jacob works hard in College on his studies and his personal fitness and hopes to make it as a pro footballer in the future. Although he played in the left wing position, he is adept at playing anywhere upfront within a team.
“The experience was really good, the atmosphere was amazing and it was good to get minutes and get an assist,” he said.
“I really enjoyed getting the chance to play at Plainmoor. It is my home town club and it was fantastic to play in front of all the fans.”
“The college has helped me a lot, giving me the opportunity and pathway through to TUAFC, and training most days has helped me improve all aspects of my game and become a better player.”
“I would like to thank all the coaches that have given me the opportunity and helped me improve, and also Dan Powell who has given me a gym plan to enhance my strength and conditioning.”
Commenting on his performance and his journey to playing at Plainmoor, Robbie Herrera, Torquay United Head of Youth said:
“Jacob has done well for our Under-18s, he’s shown up well, and he’s trained with the first-team.
“He’s not looked out-of-place, and he’s given a good account of himself, he’s up to speed with the physicality of it, and the tempo, which is great.
“He’s done his minutes with the first-team, which is brilliant from a youth point of view, but also for his personal development, and it shows that once again the academy is starting to produce players ready to be involved in first-team action.”
Jacob’s superb performance in his first league game coincides with the College’s final appearance of the season as front of short sponsor for TUAFC.
Kelly Sooben, Vice Principal at South Devon College, who was at the match on Saturday reflected on the partnership:
“The College has been proud of its position as front of shirt sponsor for TAUFC this season. It’s given us the opportunity to develop an even closer relationship with the club which we’re confident will continue to go from strength to strength.
Congratulations and a huge well done to Jacob on achieving such a significant milestone in his career – we’re sure that he has a very bright future ahead of him.”
