Charlie wood secures professional contract

First year academy student, Charlie Wood, has recently signed a 3 year professional contact with Ipswich Town FC.

Drew Kendall sat down with Charlie to talk about his journey.

Q: How did your journey begin, and what impact did playing in the reserves have on your development?

From the start of the season, I was involved with the Reserves, playing men’s football. I saw that as a major point in my career - an opportunity to gain valuable experience from senior-level football. It’s definitely a different challenge compared to youth football. Competing against men brings a new level of physicality and intensity. You’re forced to deal with the ‘dark arts’ of the game and the physical demands, which really help you grow as a player.

Q: What does it mean to you to have played for the first team?

It’s been a fantastic experience. I’m really proud of it. Making my debut for the first team, starting the match, was something I’ll never forget. I turned up at Brackley not expecting much, and then I saw my name on the team sheet. I couldn’t believe it. It was a moment where I just thought, “I’ll give everything I’ve got.” I wanted to do my absolute best whenever Tom needed me. Playing at that level made me proud, and it’s something I’ll take forward into whatever comes next.

Q: What has your overall experience at the academy been like?

It’s been brilliant. I’m definitely going to miss it, my mates, the coaches, and the teachers. It’s been such a well-rounded experience, not just educationally, but also socially and personally. Spending the day with the team, training, having lunch together, then going into education, creates a unique environment. For aspiring footballers in the county, or anywhere nearby, it really doesn’t get much better than this. I’m from Colchester, and travelling the distance every day was absolutely worth it because of how much I enjoyed and benefitted from being here.

Q: What have been your standout moments this season?

Scoring my goal against Oxford was definitely a proud moment, especially with my whole family watching. But more importantly, my debut at Brackley stands out.

Q: What does it feel like to sign your first professional contract?

It still feels unreal to sign my first professional contract. A big thank you to Needham Market Academy for helping me grow as a player and person, and to give me my senior debut at 16. I am looking forward to continuing my development at Ipswich Town and I am glad that Needham Market Academy was part of my journey.

Charlie's signing highlights the continued success of Needham Market Academy's mission to develop and prepare young players for opportunities at the highest level of the game.

Academy Head Coach, James Mant expressed his pride in Charlie's achievement:

"Charlie's progression is a real credit to the hard work he has put in since joining us. His attitude and dedication have been first class and he fully deserves this opportunity. We are all excited to see him take this next step. Everyone at the Academy is proud of him and will be following his progress closely".