Four Academy Graduates Sign Professional Contracts
The New Saints are delighted to announce that four products of the club's Academy system - Lewis Wynne, Brodie Summers, Caleb Afful, and Ellis McCue - have all signed professional contracts with the first team. The quartet represent the latest crop of homegrown talent to graduate through the ranks at Park Hall, reinforcing the club's continued commitment to developing young players and giving them a genuine pathway to first-team football.
What Happened?
Midfielder Lewis Wynne, 18, made his first-team debut as a substitute against Caernarfon Town in the Nathaniel MG Cup last season, and was also named among the substitutes on four occasions in the league, while continuing to impress in the Academy setup at the same time. Fellow midfielder Brodie Summers, 18, made his first-team debut against Airbus UK Broughton in the Nathaniel MG Cup during the 2024/25 season, and was named among the substitutes on 10 occasions in the Novira Cymru Premier in the following campaign. Defender Ellis McCue, 18, is yet to make his senior debut but has already tasted life on the first-team bench on several occasions last season, with his continued progress being rewarded with a professional deal. Striker Caleb Afful, 19, scored on his first-team debut against Flint Town United in the Nathaniel MG Cup in the 2024/25 season - a breakthrough campaign that was cruelly interrupted when he suffered a serious knee injury in November 2024.
Why It Matters for The New Saints
The New Saints' commitment to developing young players is a key part of the club's identity and success. By investing in the Academy and giving young players a pathway to the first team, the club is ensuring a bright future for itself and its fans.
What Comes Next?
The four young players will now be part of the first team squad and will be looking to make their mark on the pitch. The New Saints' fans will be eager to see how they perform and whether they can help the team achieve success in the coming seasons.
The New Saints are currently 5th in the league, with 4 points from 2 games, and are 2 points behind leaders Cardiff MET. Their next fixture is against GAP Connah S Quay FC at home on October 30, 2026.
The club's Youth Team Manager, Simon Spender, said: "The standout performers from the Under-19s last season have been offered professional contracts, and it's thoroughly deserved. Myself and Greg hope that they take this opportunity and get their chance to live their dreams of being professional footballers."
First Team Coach Simon Smith added: "It's fantastic to see the club invest again in our academy players and give them the opportunity to showcase their ability in a full-time professional environment. The boys have worked extremely hard in the time they have been at the club and shown development throughout, and we look forward to seeing that continue."
Everyone at The New Saints congratulates Lewis, Brodie, Caleb, and Ellis on their new contracts, and looks forward to following their progress in the coming months.
