Tuesday 10th March 2015
SONS development squad player Mikey Hopkins represented Scottish Schools U-18 team against Wales last week and was part of a winning team.
Played at Bangor City FC’s ground as part of the inspiresport Centenary Shield, Scotland defeated Wales 2-1.
Mikey, who has been a regular part of the Scottish squad said : “The game went really well though it was a tough match.
“I got around 80 minutes on the park, but the pitch was in poor condition making it difficult for both teams.”
Sons head of youth Richie Salveta commented : “Mikey has been in our youth development programme for six years since arriving into our under 13s squad in 2009.
“His technical ability is excellent and while our club already know this, it is good to see that coaches from outside of the club share our views on his progression in the game over the last few seasons.
“This is the second season where Mikey was selected to represent his country in the SSFA under-18 squad.
“In the past three seasons Mikey has been involved in our reserve squad while aged only 15 and also our under-20s development squads at ages 16 and 17.
“We have to show patience with players at this crucial age and stage of their career.They are still learning parts of the game and with continuing hard work from Mikey we hope his career will continue to blossom at our club.
“This should give all our Academy players a boost and confirm that there are plenty of opportunities for players to progress at our club, in what is now a well structured pathway towards first team football.”
Equally happy with Hopkins progress is 20s development boss Mark Spalding.
He added : “I’m delighted that Michael has represented the SSFA squad.
“It is a great experience for him, and Dumbarton will reap the benefits in the long term.
“Thanks go to Stewart Taylor and the SSFA coaches who have been very accommodating allowing Michael to play in games for the 20s during training camps and squad meetings when possible and that co-operation is excellent and has again benefitted Michael and both parties.”
Meanwhile Hopkins will hope to be involved when Scotland play England in the same tournament, especially as the game will be at the Dumbarton Football Stadium.
Date for your diary is Friday 10th April 2015 and kick-off will be 7pm.
Alan Findlay