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From Academy to First Team: Whitby Town’s Pathway in Action
The Whitby Town Academy continues to prove that it’s more than just a development programme - it’s a genuine pathway into senior men’s football.
In recent months, a number of Academy players have taken significant steps forward, earning opportunities at first-team level both locally and further afield. Each journey is different, but the message is the same: hard work at the Academy level is being noticed.
One of the standout stories is Tommy Dowson, who has become an important figure at Guisborough Town, on dual-registration terms from the Seasiders. Dowson is currently playing a pivotal role in Guisborough's promotion push from Northern League Division One, showcasing the consistency and maturity that the Academy aims to instil in its players.
Up front, Finley McKittrick is making plenty of noise. Now featuring for Marske United, McKittrick has been finding the back of the net regularly for the Academy - form that earning himself a trial at Blackburn Rovers. It’s a huge opportunity and a reward for his recent performances and everyone at the Academy wishes him all the best with the Sky Bet Championship club.
Ben Riddough’s progression is another example of the pathway working as intended. Starting out with Billingham Synthonia, Ben has since stepped up and is now involved with Marske United, continuing his development within the men’s game.
Back at Guisborough Town, Joseph Townsend has also caught the eye. After a series of strong performances in the college league, Townsend was recently selected by college manager Nathan Haslam, underlining how Academy performances can translate directly into senior opportunities.
Closer to home, the Academy’s influence is clear within Whitby Town itself. Frankie Alderson, Jack Conwell, Jack Kilpatrick, Sonny McKenna and Ben Riddough have all been involved in first-team training, gaining valuable experience and exposure to the demands of senior football.
These stories reflect the Academy’s core purpose: preparing young players for the next step, whatever form that takes. Whether it’s first-team training with the Seasiders and Gary Liddle, regular minutes in senior non-league football, or trials at professional clubs, the Whitby Town Academy continues to open doors into the senior game.