When GTFC's retained list was announced last week, something which particularly pleased the Trust was that THREE youth products were given the opportunity to become part of Paul Hurst's 2014-15 first team squad; Paul Walker, Caine Winfarrah and Ellis Humble.
It is difficult to know whether to attribute this to pure ability, hard work by the individuals from a young age, or good work done by Stuart Watkiss's team. Even that the longer we remain in the Conference, the increasing factor of the economics of young players being cheaper. There's probably an element of truth in all these points, but regardless it demonstrates progress from previous seasons, when pretty much the entire youth crop was released, and almost instantly forgotten about as each summer we focus on another attempt to return to the League.
The most notable exception to this is the post-Ryan Bennett/Danny North era is Dayle Southwell, who, having been on the edge of the first team for 2 successive seasons, has now been released. We will keep an eye out to see where he finds himself in the near future.
The three deals for Humble, Winfarrah and Walker this year see the best return for youth development for a long time. Last year not a single player made the pro ranks, while Southwell was the only player to get a professional contract the year before. Over the years Town have given chances to a large number of players who have gone through the youth ranks. Some - like Gary Croft, John Oster and Ryan Bennett - have been sold on for huge amounts of money.
Manager Paul Hurst has already showed he's not afraid to blood young players. Last season's FA Trophy replay against Coalville had SIX former YTs in the 16 man matchday squad. Humble, Winfarrah and Southwell, who grabbed a hat-trick, all started, with Walker and Tom Charlesworth also appearing from the bench. Andi Thanoj was the 6th member of the 16 to have come through the ranks. See this piece in the local rag including quotes from players and boss;
http://www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk/Homegrown-Grimsby-Town-trio-realise-dreams/story-21118546-detail/story.html
MINI PROFILES.
#1 PAUL WALKER Last season Squad Number #24
First Team History: Made two first team subs appearances early last season, following Aswad Thomas's dismissal against Nuneaton, then a fortnight later when loanee Alan Goodall went off injured against Braintree. Then made his first full start in the midweek '10 Changes' trip to Dartford. Was a sub in the Coalville replay. (Made some impressive runs in an otherwise boring pre-season match at Gainsborough too!)
Main Position: Right Back
Competing With: Paul Bignot
Our Thoughts; its a good club to be a full back at; our only confirmed coaching staff at this point are the gaffer and asst.manager/physio, both former full backs. Who better to learn from?
#2 CAINE WINFARRAH Last season Squad Number #25
First Team History: Made a total of 4 subs appearances in Conference games, most notably his debut at Woking, where he set up Craig Disley's winner, but also at Dartford and Braintree in the run-in, and a cameo at home to Chester. Also appeared with a start and a sub apperance in the Coalville first tie and replay respectively.
Main Position: Left sided midfielder/left back
Competing With: Scott Neilson, Paddy McLaughlin
Our Thoughts; may well see more cameos than last season, interesting that both he and Paddy proven to be possible left back cover and Jamal Fyfield not kept on
#3 ELLIS HUMBLE Last season Squad Number #21
First Team History: Made his debut in the aforementioned Coalville FA Trophy replay at Blundell Park.
Main Position: Centre Back
Competing With: Shaun Pearson, Chris Doig perhaps, others to be confirmed
Our Thoughts; in reality, will be hoping to learn from the experienced centre halves and perhaps compete with Walker for a place on the subs bench, depending on how many new signings are made, plus injuries and suspensions.
We will monitor their progress over the 2014-15 season with interest, and let's hope they can play a part in a successful season, and that in doing so, more opportunities will arise for next season's youth teamers and beyond! Up the Mariners!