Next Up in the spotlight is centre midfielder, Tom Raithby. Tom joined the club from Step 6 side, brigg town.
Why did you join Wakefield A.F.C?
I recently moved to the area and wanted to find a team nearby. After a conversation with Adam [Lockwood] about the vision of the club I was sold on the ambition and where the club wanted to go.
How does Wakefield A.F.C compare with other clubs you have been at?
It feels very professional. Training is well thought out and reflects what has happened in games which I always think is a good sign. There’s a good team atmosphere and everyone is pulling in the same direction. The stuff going on off the pitch definitely has the right feel about it and is some of the best I’ve seen at this level.
What is it like playing under ex-professional footballers?
Locky just says head it and kick it?! Just kidding! I’ve always been keen to learn and what better people to get advice from than those that have made a career out of it.
How do you prepare for a game? Do you have pre-game rituals?
A bit of a standard one that I’ve heard a lot of players do, but I put everything on the left hand side first, then the right. Not because of any superstition but more to make sure I haven’t forgot anything!
Who is the loudest out of the group?
Off this pitch, Bruno by a mile! – I don’t know how he keeps going. In the group chat it’s Jed. He loves it. On the pitch it’s probably me but off the pitch I’m one of the quieter ones.
What is your favourite thing about Wakefield?
Moving from a town to a city there’s quite a few perks, but being able to get a dessert delivered to your house is up there. I should also probably mention my wife as well, but the dessert is a very close second.
Who is your footballing idol and why?
Steven Gerrard is my football idol. A Liverpool legend who could change a game by himself. He had everything; speed, strength, scored goals, passing range and vision. I’m just gutted he didn’t get to lift the Premier League Trophy but I don’t think anyone will ever forget Istanbul in 2005!
Which football team do you support and why?
I’m a Liverpool fan. It came about when I was little, I used to spend Fridays at my auntie’s. My cousin had a huge goal at the bottom of a massive garden, he was quite a good player and used to put me in net and blast footys at me. I’d save about 1 in 100 and he would always tell me it’s because I was wearing a Liverpool goalie top that he lent me so I didn’t get my clothes dirty!
What are you hobbies outside of football?
I like to keep fit and go to the gym a few times a week. Pretty much any sport so cycling, golf, and swimming are the ones I do the most – just not cricket!
Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
Most likely retired, I’ll be 37! But I’m still holding out hope that I will be like a James Milner / Jamie Vardy and get better with age!