Young stars: Rio Glean, left, and Dion Sfarca with Haverstock School’s Jamie Histed and Matthew Miller

Published: 29 January, 2015
by STEVE BARNETT

SCHOOL-MATES Rio Glean and Dion Sfarca are united in their goal of trying to make a name for themselves in the world of professional football. 

The pair are uncannily following in the same footsteps. 

They both started out playing in the Camden and Islington Midweek Youth League at Market Road, have both represented their district teams and have both captained their school in their respective years. 

And now, they have both signed their first schoolboy contracts with professional clubs and, having done so, agree the hard work starts now. 

Midfielder Rio, who lives in Queen’s Crescent, has signed a two-year deal with Championship side Fulham, turning down a possible offer from the team he supports in the process. “I was on trial at Chelsea and getting a lot of positive feedback from the coaches,” explained the 13-year-old. “But Fulham acted quickly to offer me a contract so I signed for them. 

“I was instantly made to feel like part of the club. I think I can make a bigger impact with Fulham and if I keep working hard I can make a name for myself at the club.” 

Striker Dion, 12, who lives in Euston, is just as determined to keep working hard after signing a one-year deal with League One side Brentford. 

“I’m not taking the contract for granted,” said the Manchester United fan. “You can always do better, and get better. At Brentford not only have I been given a great chance to improve but I could even break into their first team if I keep working hard enough.” 

There’s one more thing the boys have in common – and it might just be the most important factor of all. 

They both go to Haverstock School in Chalk Farm, where PE teacher Jamie Histed is determined to create a lasting sporting legacy. 

“At Haverstock we have put together an elite sporting and extra curriculum programme, with a highly qualified team of coaches,” said Jamie. 

“All our boys and girls teams are excelling in football this year. We have PE staff with great connections with professional clubs, including Arsenal, Crystal Palace, Fulham and Brentford. 

“With the team and networks we’re building, not only do we offer the very highest quality of coaching but we can help our students reach the very top in a wide range of sports, including football, basketball, table tennis, fencing, rowing and cycling.”