We are delighted to announce that Harrison King has become the latest Exeter City Academy star to have signed their first professional contract.
King, who had captained the under-18s on several occasions, made his first team debut under Kevin Nicholson in the EFL Trophy against Southampton under-21s, before featuring in the final group game away at Forest Green a fortnight later, and was also on the bench for the league fixture against the same opponent earlier in the season.
He then joined Plymouth Parkway of the Southern League until the end of the season, alongside Pedro Borges, and scored his first goal for the club in an FA Trophy tie away at Oxford City in November.
"It feels absolutely amazing, having been at the academy for so long." King said.
"Seeing all the academy players coming through, the likes of Archie Collins and Josh Key, it's a proud moment and one I can thrive off. It's a credit to my famiy, and a very proud moment for myself.
"I've been here since I was six or seven, and it's been rocky at times but mostly positive. I got my scholarship at 16 and had to change positions, which I found tough. But everything that has happened so far I have handled and this is now by far the toughest test - trying to break into the first team.
"It's amazing to be a part of this under-18 group. To see so many of us get pro contracts is brilliant and it looks good for the club as well."
Operating primarily as a full-back, but also capable in centre midfield, King is an exciting prospect for the future, and Head of Coaching Brad-Lee Miller has explained why he has been offered a professional contract.
"We are delighted to have offered Kingy the contract and that he has accepted it. Harrison has had a fantastic academy journey with us and some fantastic experiences along the way. He is a polite and well-mannered young man and he works very hard at his game.
"A massive thank you goes to Plymouth Parkway for helping the facilitation of his development within men's football at a good level. He has attacked challenges with a really positive mindset and endeavour and has continued to work hard with us as well as on loan. He deserves this opportunity."