Young Charlton Athletic centre-back signs first professional contract
Charlton youngster Mason Hunter has signed his first professional contract.
The 18-year-old has skippered the club’s U18 side, bossed by Jason Pearce, as they won a fourth successive Professional Development League 2 South title.
Hunter, who scored in the play-off semi-final win over Barnsley earlier this month, also collected the 2023-24 Pierre Bolangi Award.
Hunter told the club’s official website: “I’m honoured and delighted. I’m really proud of myself for achieving this contract.
“It’s been an enjoyable ride – I’ve had many ups and downs but I’ve kept my head down, kept working hard and I’m really enjoying my football.
Picture : Keith Gillard
“Working with Jason Pearce has really benefitted my game. He was a similar player to myself – not the tallest, but wanted to defend and could also play. He has incredible knowledge of the game.”
Academy director Steve Avory added: “I’m delighted that Mason has achieved a pro contract. It’s fully deserved after a successful scholarship, including a particularly impressive second year. He’s been an inspirational leader, leading by example with his consistent performances in a successful team.
“He’s a local boy, who has been with us since the foundation phase, so I’m really pleased to see another player make that development from foundation phase to signing a professional contract.”
PICTURES: KEITH GILLARD
Everyone at the South London Press thanks you for your continued support.
Former Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has encouraged everyone in the country who can afford to do so to buy a newspaper, and told the Downing Street press briefing:
“A FREE COUNTRY NEEDS A FREE PRESS, AND THE NEWSPAPERS OF OUR COUNTRY ARE UNDER SIGNIFICANT FINANCIAL PRESSURE”
If you can afford to do so, we would be so grateful if you can make a donation which will allow us to continue to bring stories to you, both in print and online. Or please make cheques payable to “MSI Media Limited” and send by post to South London Press, Unit 112, 160 Bromley Road, Catford, London SE6 2NZ
