Episode 22 - Harry Seaden - “Earn your stripes”

Episode 22 - Harry Seaden

“Earn your Stripes”

A local lad whose dad played CH for Southend United under Bobby Moore. H was still turning out for Rayleigh Boys Club at u14s and following in his dad’s footsteps, playing at the back whilst dabbling with some time in goal. 

An injury to the academy GK whilst he was training in goal for the foundation saw a suprise call up and he never looked back. Two years of playing in goal for the academy earned him his apprenticeship with the team he used to watch on a Saturday. 

Even more accolades happened at u16s level where he was picked for England at the Toulon tournament, quite remarkable really given two years ago he was still playing on pitch at grassroots level. 

At 17 level he was involved further with England and was included in the squad for the European Championships. 

A pro deal at Southend followed but appearances were sporadic and I think he went 250 games as an unused substitute. I think this period coincided with the clubs troubles off the pitch and also with COVID and the protocols around football. 

A young man that wanted to play he left the club for regular men’s football regardless of the level and took over the number shirt at Billericay Town.

I would say his experiences in non league since then have been up and down but he has the determination to earn his stripes and move back up the leagues.

The current Concord Rangers stopper has so far seen action in League one, League Two, Conference National, Conference South, Isthmian Prem and Isthmian North. Time to see the big lad get back to where he deserves.

I hope you enjoy the episode and if in doubt “Turn it round the corner”.

👊🏻⚽️