We were delighted to hear that Fifth Year Jacob Fasida, who trains with Crystal Palace FC Academy was recently called up to play with the club’s U21s in a match against Rangers. At just 16 years old, Jacob was the youngest to be selected for this side, demonstrating the club’s belief in his talent and potential.
“It all happened quite quickly,” Jacob explains. “I was told the week before, and then we flew to play Rangers U21s in Glasgow. We arrived early on the Monday, trained in the gym, then played the match that afternoon, followed by recovery work at the hotel.” Despite being one of the youngest on the pitch, Jacob said, “I actually quite enjoyed it. It was good to compare myself to older players. They were obviously a bit bigger and faster, but I thought I played well.”
It didn’t stop there for Jacob, who plays as a centre-back, a couple of weeks later his U18 team played against Crystal Palace’s first team during the international break.
“The first-team experience was different level,” Jacob recalls. “You watch them on TV, but it’s nothing like actually playing against them. They’re constantly in your face, always a step ahead, and they just don’t give you a break. I played against some massive names—Chilwell, Mateta, Nketiah, Mitchell, and Nathaniel Clyne. All internationals. You really appreciate how good they are when you’re on the same pitch.”
A multi-sport scholar, Jacob balances school sport and representing Trinity at cricket, rugby and football, with training at Crystal Palace. Mr Wilson, Head of Football, is Jacob’s sports mentor and supports him to ensure he can manage the academic workload with his training schedule, particularly this year as he prepares for his GCSEs.
From July 2025, Jacob will be based full-time at Crystal Palace as a scholar at the Academy—an exciting step in his footballing career. Yet Trinity will always remain a home for him. “I’ll definitely be back to watch the rugby and football,” he smiles. “I want to check in on the younger boys and see how they’re getting on.”
Congratulations, Jacob—we are incredibly proud of you and can’t wait to see what comes next!
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