On Saturday Night, 17-year-old local lad Will Dobson made his professional debut for the Newcastle Jets against Melbourne City at McDonald Jones Stadium.
Dobson, who signed a scholarship contract back in August, was substituted on in the 89th minute, instantly making an impact with his composure on the ball and eye for a pass.
“It was bit of a surreal moment to hear all my family and friends behind the dugouts, egging me on a bit. It was a really good feeling to hear all the fans when I came on. It’s a bit of a surreal feeling going from being in those stands as a fan to actually running out as a player.”
The central midfielder has had a remarkable rise over the last two years, winning the 2023 Jets Academy Player of the Year award, as well as playing a key part in the Youth side that went unbeaten in the FNSW League Two competition, and now making his professional debut.
“I’m so proud of myself, you know, just enjoying it at the moment. I’m taking it day by day, but my goal this year is to just keep going in the direction I’m heading, just playing as regularly as I can, training hard and improving myself.”
The Hunter Sports High student, when asked about whether or not he was excited to be heading back to school on Monday, responded with,
“Oh. Yeah, I think it’ll be good fun. I’ve got a day off from training on Monday, so yeah, might pop into school, see my mates, teachers. A few of them are out here today. It’ll be good to get back to school, have a quick chat with the teachers. Haven’t seen them in a while.”
