Bridgwater & Taunton College (BTC) sport and exercise science student Jack Hooper has signed to Bristol City Football Club on a two-year scholarship following outstanding performances both at college and in national competitions.
Hooper was selected for the England Colleges after a successful South West trial at SGS College, where he showcased his talents among the region’s most promising players.
Jack said: “Team BTC has been very supportive with my education, getting the most out of me in classes and allowing me to learn a lot in the most productive way. 
“Football-wise, Team BTC has given me a lot of opportunities surrounded by the best coaches and amazing players leading us to success with a very long unbeaten run, being top of the Saturday league. Competitive and unbeaten in the AOC Wednesday league with good performances week in week out and a fantastic FA youth cup run.
“Overall, Team BTC has allowed this opportunity for me to play for Bristol City, so for the future I have to repay that and make everyone there even more proud and keep pushing myself.”
Mo Hopkins (Men’s Football Performance Lead) said: “Jack first came to my attention playing district schools football, where we tend to recruit a number of our student athletes.
“Jack displayed a solid game, good passing range and composure on the ball. He subsequently earned selection for the Somerset County Schools team where he played alongside several of his future college teammates.
“From there Jack came into Team BTC U18s where he enjoyed a full preseason coming in four times a week. Where we played fixtures exposing the players to senior opponents, academy teams, or other U18s sides.
“This season’s group are full of characters and Jack was very much an important part of the team. We had an excellent FA Cup run, plus unbeaten in both our league campaigns. Jack’s contributions will be missed but fully appreciated by his teammates, plus all the sports staff and curriculum wish him the very best in an exciting journey with Bristol City.”
The culmination of Hooper’s hard work and talent was highlighted in his performances in the FA Youth Cup. His impressive displays were key in capturing the attention of Bristol City FC, leading to a trial with the club. Since then, Hooper has already represented Bristol City FC in the Gloucestershire Senior Cup and prestigious premier league clubs such as Tottenham Hotspur.
To find out more about the college, Team BTC and sport courses visit www.btc.ac.uk.
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