Riley and his brother Reagan turned up at our club one night, after taking part in Quicksticks at a local primary school. A bit nervous, however, full of energy it was very evident they had something, even from that first session. It also helped when we got a player from Ratcliffe College, who was also brilliant, they locked horns and drove each other on. Soon a strong team was built around these new players.

They went for the U10s at Ashby. It wasn't in the script for these new players to show up the hosts, then Belper, Burton and beat Beeston in the final. It was Riley in the middle of the park building the play, setting up the goals or scoring them himself.

This is when we spotted our new stars.

Next county U12s This was their team moment. Riley and Samuel were too good. They got to a Shootout with Ashby, which they won but lost to Leicester in the final, by one late goal. However, they were through to the Midlands stage for the first time ever in the club history.

Riley and his team mates founded our Badgers team, again it was a tough start but it didn't take long for Riley to get stuck in and match some of the premier clubs. Always the player to pick up the ball and take the game to the opposition, often his skills baffling the adult players.

Riley then took the next step into the England single system. Even with confidence issues and lack of quality kit he managed to progress into the county team. Very difficult where all the other kids have the latest sticks. Coming from a large single parent Family there was not the spare money for these luxury’s.

This is when Frog Island Sport and Brabo stepped in. Sue and Sean had heard of this young star from Westleigh, not from a grammar school, but local to the city centre. One with boundless talent, but needed confidence and support. Sue knows from her own son Sam Ward (GB Olympian) how hard it can be to break into the elite. So Christmas came early for Riley who was shocked to be taken to the shop at Frog island and given a personal experience he will never forget. Sue Ward first helping him with a new stick. Not any stick, the one her Sam plays with. It didn't stop there, everything an up and coming player would need. Plus, some inspirational words from Sue to go and do your best. Now at county Riley would more than fit in, the confidence that he is now a sponsored player will push him onto the next stage.

Riley has moved up to the Men's team where he has already showed his skill. First two games two goals and many senior players left puzzled as to how he glided past them.

Keep up the Great work Riley!