CONOR IS A FULL-TIMER
Fernhill teenager’s dream granted by Diamonds
A Fernhill teenager has had his wish granted as he gears up for his first season as a full- time professional footballer.
Conor Bell, 18, finally put pen to paper with Airdrieonians after waiting several years to achieve his dream.
The former Trinity High School pupil was one of nine young players to have been given a SPFL Modern Apprenticeship which helps players develop their skills on and off the pitch.
The two- year scheme ensures the youngsters will mix the challenge to make it into the first team with education off the park. It is designed to give them careers to fall back on should they not make it in the full-time game.
But Conor’s mind is firmly on making it into the first team and impressing gaffer Eddie Wolecki Black.
The left full-back told the Reformer: “I am delighted and can’t wait to get started in June.
“I know a lot of the boys well who have signed the same apprenticeship and there is a really good team spirit in the changing room.
“Next season I aim to make as many first team appearances as I can and I’ll keep working hard and see where it takes me.
“I am really grateful to the club for giving me the opportunity to play fulltime football.”
Conor, the eldest of two brothers and two sisters, signed with the Diamonds last Monday, May 23.
The club announced in January that it would be going full-time as of June this year and revealed their new training headquarters would be the Ravenscraig Regional Sports Centre in Motherwell.
And under-20s coach Kevin McBride said he was looking forward to working with Conor and the rest of the apprentices at the base next month.
“It’s a great chance for the boys as we establish the first nine on a scheme that will be a big part of the future for us.
“It is a great opportunity for them to combine football skills with educational needs and they also have a wealth of experience at the club that they can use as they progress in their chosen path.”
Conor has played football since he was five years old and throughout his journey to make it as a full-time pro, he was scouted at the age of 13 by the Celtic Academy.
He was named player of the year for both St Mark’s Primary and Trinity High School and joined Airdrie as part of their pro-youth under 17 squad where he has scored four goals.
Conor had also played for the Scotland National West Region team before signing for the Diamonds.
His proud mum Elaine, who has stood on the touchline in all weathers to cheer her son on, said she could not be more thrilled.
She said: “Conor is over the moon. Fulltime football is all he has ever wanted to do, it’s a dream come true.
“It’s been a long journey but all the family are very proud of him.
“He’s hoping to break into the first team and will need to prove himself to the coaches.”