Woodham Academy has a rich tradition of producing footballers of the highest quality. Previous successes include Jason Steele, Ross Turnbull, Lewis Wing, Christopher Mason and Darren Craddock, all playing professionally over the last 16 years. Tyler Smith is the next player aspiring to emulate this group, having recently signed a 2-year contract with Middlesbrough Football Club, where he’ll attend full time when leaving school at the end of this year. Tyler is a fast, dynamic player, who is very good technically and can play in a range of positions, including his favoured position of left back. Tyler has represented the U16’s and U18’s this year and produced some fantastic displays, most recently at Derby County where he scored in a Middlesbrough win. Not only is Tyler a talented footballer, but he is also a hardworking, conscientious student, who applies himself to the best of his ability and displays Woodham Academy core values in abundance.
Football is thriving at Woodham; girls’ football, particularly is something that has continued to increase in popularity over the last couple of years. Woodham now has strong, consistent teams in Year 7, 8 and 9 with students in Years 10 and 11 also playing regularly for clubs, academies and RTCs (Regional Talent Clubs). Two students to watch for the future are Safi Sevim in Year 10, who is a fast, agile and clinical striker, is currently playing for Sunderland Academy, and Layken Hardy in Year 9, who is a strong, commanding goalkeeper, and currently plays for Durham WFC, as well as being selected for the Durham County U14’s team.