Crayford striker out to land dream Swindon or Orient pro contract (From News Shopper)

Crayford striker out to land dream Swindon or Orient pro contract

12:56pm Tuesday 9th October 2012 in Sport

A FOOTBALLER from Crayford has been shortlisted in a nationwide competition to win a professional playing contract with either Swindon Town or Leyton Orient.

Solomon Akins, 19, was one of more than 5,000 hopefuls to sign up for the Win A Pro Contract contest and the striker is already through to the skills testing sessions.

Also in the running to win the star prize is keeper Oliver Turk, from Bromley.

Last year’s winner Chris Smith was a student before he signed for League One Swindon Town in February and made his first team debut just three months later against Bradford City.

Smith said: “When I entered Win A Pro Contract I was just one of the thousands of players in the competition who dreamed of playing pro football.

“My dream came true.

“This year, for the first time, there are two clubs involved, so there are two pro contracts to be won.

“I wish every player the best of luck.”

Swindon manager Paolo Di Canio said: “The Samsung Win a Pro Contract competition offers an amazing prize.

“But it will not be an easy journey for the players who have entered.

“They will have to work very hard to earn a chance here.”

Orient manager Russell Slade added: “Becoming a professional footballer is a demanding process.

“This competition will be very tough in terms of fitness, as well as skill.

“The players who have made it through to the first-round trials will need to give it their all if they want to go on live the dream.”

Win A Pro Contract hopefuls take part in a series of trials and full matches watched by club scouts and the two managers.

The two winners will be chosen in January 2013.

To follow Akins’ progress in the competition, visit facebook.com/samsungfootball