FOOTBALL: Cirencester Academy goalkeeper takes first step to earning pro contract (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Harrison Ellis short-listed in Win a Pro Contract competition

9:57am Saturday 8th September 2012 in Sport

HARRISION ELLIS, who plays in goal for Cirencester Academy, has been short-listed 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.”

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.