It’s been a big season for Tom Henson. The emerging utility man is one of a number of players at Malvern Town who have been getting their first taste of Step 4 football in the Pitching In Southern League Division One South and now his progress has been rewarded with a call-up into the English Universities squad, which was announced on Thursday.
The Hartpury student, who is studying Sports Coaching & Performance, impressed in a recent North v South Challenge Cup game where he was named Man of the Match for the South team and now will be part of the full squad that will participate in the Home Nations tournament.
Meanwhile, as well as excelling for his university team, he is also getting to grips with the demands of Southern League football with some energetic displays that belies his tender years.
“It’s an extremely proud moment for me to be selected to represent England Universities,” he told us. “I’ve really enjoyed the experience I’ve had so far being part of the set up and I am looking forward to what comes next.
“I’m enjoying my football this season; at university level I’ve been part of some great performances for Hartpury and winning the BUCS National Final was brilliant for everyone involved.
“The challenge that has come with playing in the Southern League for Malvern Town is also something that I have faced with relish. It’s such a competitive level to play at with some top teams involved; every game is different and no opposition should be under-estimated.
“It has certainly helped me grow and develop as a player. Malvern Town is a great club from top to bottom; they have given a good account of themselves at this level following promotion at the end of last season and whilst having commitments for both university football and in the Southern League can sometimes be challenging, I have enjoyed it all.
“I want to reach as high a level as I possibly can in the game and to do that, I feel that it is important to stay patient as a young player, take in and learn from each experience as it comes along.
“I have certainly learned a lot this season and feel that things are progressing in the right direction, so long may that continue.”
Malvern Town face their penultimate home game of the season on Saturday as they host Tavistock.
IMAGE: Cliff Williams
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