In an ongoing series we are highlighting the young players who are part of the JD Academy, the Irish Football Association’s elite development programme. Today Alfie Pollock is in the spotlight…
Name: Alfie Pollock
DOB: 31 March 2010
Position: Centre Back
Club: Glenavon
School: Campbell College, Belfast
Hometown: Portadown
Alfie Pollock is flourishing as a player with Glenavon, however his earliest football memory is playing for near neighbours Lurgan Town.
Since those early days the 15-year-old has put in non-stop work, ultimately earning him a place at the Irish FA’s JD Academy, his proudest achievement to date.
Pollock, thriving in the situation, shared some honest thoughts about the significant effort required to be part of a rigorous programme. “It has been very enjoyable but tough,” he said.
And he added: “You are constantly playing against high quality opponents, not just from Northern Ireland but other countries as well. Also the most challenging parts of the training schedule are the pitch and gym sessions every day.”
Despite how tough it can be to be involved in the elite pathway, Pollock is proud to be part of it. He says it is a privilege to represent Northern Ireland through the academy.
The centre back is keen to improve his overall game. Specifically he is trying to improve his weaker left foot, working on it every day in the hope of being able to be comfortable playing either on the right side or the left in the backline.
Tackling is another important aspect for a successful centre back, who is relied upon to make crucial blocks and to thwart attacks.
Knowing the importance of this quality, the young defender takes inspiration from a current senior Northern Ireland international.
“A professional player that I look up to is Trai Hume. He’s my favourite player to have represented the national team,” Pollock said. “I admire most his aggressiveness in his tackles.”
His career goal is to follow in Hume’s footsteps - to play professionally and to play for Northern Ireland.
