First senior goal for Stockton Town Man of the Match Callum

The football season has got off to a flying start for sport and exercise science student Callum.

As part of Stockton Town’s Under 18s squad on dual-registration with FC Hartlepool, an impressive run of early goals earned the Bede Sixth Form student appearances with the Anchors’ senior squad.

On his eighth appearance with Stockton Town’s first team, Callum netted his first senior goal at the match against Emley, where he was also named Man of the Match.

Seeming to take his run of success in his stride, Callum told us: “Getting my first senior goal should now give me confidence.”

He is certainly looking forward to lots more to come.

Growing up playing football, with his dad encouraging him to kick a ball as soon as he was up on his feet, his love for the game feels like second nature.

He said: “My first club was Boro Rangers.”

Showing a talent for the game as an up-and-coming young striker, Callum was picked up at six, falling under the radar of three of the biggest North-east clubs. He ultimately chose to take a contract with Newcastle United’s development team.

Moving to Stockton Town’s Under 16s at 15, he has worked his way up the ranks at the club and is now enjoying his chance to train and play on the first team.

Invited to train with the senior squad in June this year, he made his first team-debut in August.

Building on his skills, he said: “Training and getting the opportunity to play with the first team is good for my development and a really good level to be playing at.”

Also studying and training at Bede, Callum plays for the ISE Men’s Football Academy, part of the college’s Institute of Sport and Education enabling talented young athletes to develop in their sport alongside their college education.

With big ambitions ahead, he is certainly putting in the legwork.