SOMERSET footballer Arthur Nasta will join Premier League club Wolverhampton Wanderers as a professional starting on July 2024.
The 18-year-old goalkeeper from Butleigh will join Wolves in their seventh consecutive campaign back in the topflight of English football, having been promoted to the Premier League in 2018.
Arthur, who is an Upper Sixth boarder at Millfield School, said: “I feel incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to play the sport I love so much in a top professional environment.”
Arthur, who joined Millfield in Year 9 on a sports scholarship, has thrived during his time on the Millfield football programme.
He said: “I have learned a huge amount from Scott Laird, Millfield’s first team coach, whose experience at a professional level, caring personality, and ability to communicate were critical for my development.
"I was also very privileged to work with Steve Phillips, a top goalkeeper coach, and to be surrounded by many other talented players.
"All these people have enabled me to learn and pick up countless tips and pieces of advice along the way.”
Arthur was able to set up his personalised development plan with the football department, including one-to-one goalkeeping sessions and playing his first full season of men’s football for Larkhall Athletic Football Club.
He said: “Working with Steve Phillips, a professional who played in hundreds of games in the English Championship, has been a huge privilege.
"Steve has been extremely invested in my journey and wants the complete and utter best for everyone he works with.
"His training sessions are arduous but also fun and exciting.
"I felt reassured that my coaching came from a true professional who was able to support me all along.
"I have also been lucky to have had support from all the coaches and the S&C department, who have been able to create and tailor a plan that I have followed throughout my time at school.”
Arthur, who is currently taking his A Levels, is able to keep up with his schoolwork alongside his training schedule.
“I make sure to communicate regularly with my housemistress and with the football coaches to get their feedback," he said.
"Communication and feedback enabled me to improve both my sporting and academic life while at Millfield.”
Millfield Senior boys lead coach Scott Laird said: “Everyone at Millfield is so proud of Arthur, and this is a testament to his hard work and dedication on and off the pitch.
"The way Arthur trains and plays is a great example for any athlete who is striving to get to the top.
"I would like to thank him for everything he has given to Millfield and Millfield Football.”
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