We are delighted to announce that young defender Ed James has signed his first professional contract.
One of Our Own Ed is currently on loan at Tiverton Town alongside Pedro Borges, who signed his own pro deal last week. James was handed his first team debut for the Grecians by Kevin Nicholson in October's 2-1 win over Southampton in the Papa Johns Trophy, and made his League One debut soon after against Oxford United, replacing the injured Pierce Sweeney. He joined Weymouth on a short loan before linking up with our friends at Tiverton in January.
"This is a big moment for me, having been at the club since I was eight years old," Ed said after signing his contract.
"Everything has been so positive with the academy, and it shows why it has created so many talents. I've only had good experiences and had so many good coaches over the years.
"Making my professional debut I was pretty nervous before but once I got on the pitch I was alright. Being in that first team is always good, I feel like I've developed a lot more and learnt so much more.
"I've also had a few good loan experiences, starting at Saltash and now I'm at Tiverton and it works really well. I'm getting first team minutes week in week out and that really helps develop me and get me closer to where I want to be."
Brad Miller, Head of Coaching and Player Development added: "Ed is first and foremost a fantastic young man who joined the club at eight years old. He’s work incredibly hard on his game during his time with the academy and has grown as a player and in stature in his time here.
"To see Ed as a big centre half is testament to the way in how we do things in the academy and give him variety and make sure he has the skill set for the future.
"We are delighted he’s been able to get across the line and gain a professional contact at this stage - he’s had some great experience with the under-18s, the first team and on loan.
"Ed has really strong attributes that will leave him in good stead for his future with the club."
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