Winterfold Pupil Signed to West Bromwich Albion

28 May 2018

Talented footballer Frazer Billings from Winterfold School, Chaddesley Corbett is over the moon after having signed for his favourite team West Bromwich Albion at eight years of age.

Frazer joined Kidderminster Lions Soccer School at the age of three and soon progressed to be part of the U6 squad. During this time, Frazer was couted by Wolverhampton Wonderers and asked to join the pre-Academy training program at Wolves, involving three evenings training sessions a week and matches on a Saturday against Academies such as Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham. Frazer remained at Wolves for his U6/U7 season, when again he was scouted by West Bromwich Albion whilst playing for his grass roots team Kidderminster Lions (Who have had two successful seasons winning the Stourbridge League U7 and most recently U8 League Title). Frazer would like to take thsi opportunity to thank his Kidderminster Lions Coaches Brian Fellows and Matt Baker for their commitment and support during him time with the team and he will be sad to leave at the end of the season.

As a WBA fan, Frazer was delighted to be asked to join the WBA pre-Academy training programme which very quickly involved training three evenings a week and Saturday matches against Academies such as Fulham, West Ham and Charlton, to name a few. Frazer joined WBA mid-way through his U7 season in 2017, which is when he decided to leave Wolves. After a successful U8 season, West Bromwich Albion soon committed to Frazer and he was absolutely thrilled and delighted at the news that they were offering him a place in the Academy from next season. Frazer enjoyed a special signing evening held at the Richardson Suite at the Hawthorns on 7th April and is pictured signing his contract with WBA first team players Jonathan Leko, Sam Field and Rekeem Harper.

Frazer has worked extremely hard to become an Academy player and it is a fantastic achievement at such as young age. Frazer has full support from his parents “this is a great opportunity for Frazer and with determination, hard work and commitment, we look forward to watching his progress and development at WBA. Frazer has been given a great opportunity and as long as he is happy and enjoying his football, that is the most important thing at his age. Exciting times are ahead!”

Mr. James Brinkley, Head of Boys’ PE said “It is great to see Frazer making such good progress as a result of the hard work and practise he puts into his football. He sets a terrific example for his team mates at School and we wish him all the best with WBA.”