From Foundation to First Team: Will Signs for Crawley Town FC

Will before he began with the Crawley Town Community Foundation 16–19 Programme

We are thrilled to share some special news from the Crawley Town Community Foundation today as our 16–19 Football Education Programme graduate Will Heater has officially signed with Crawley Town FC's first team, completing the pathway from the Football Education Programme to professional football in League Two.

Will’s journey is one of dedication, talent, and seizing the opportunity when it presents itself. Will joined the Foundation programme as a young goalkeeper - one eager to improve both on and off the pitch and he quickly impressed coaches with his attitude and talent. His development over the past two years has been a shining example of what our programme is all about: working with education and elite-level training to support the opportunities of young athletes.

Will trains with the 16-19 Football Education Programme

In November of last year, Will was asked to attend first-team training with  the Crawley Town first-team, initially to help with squad numbers. What followed was a testament to Will’s preparation, mindset, and eagerness to make the most of the chance.

Our Head of Foundation Darren Ford spoke about the signing:

“Myself and all involved with the Foundation are delighted to see Will sign for the Club and for all his hard work to be rewarded. From the Foundation being asked to provide a goalkeeper to attend first-team training last November to support with numbers to getting to this stage shows you have to take any opportunities you are offered and hopefully this shows to other aspiring players that you need to make the most of these opportunities, just as Will has done.

I’d like to take the opportunity to thank the Club staff for their support for Will over recent months and for their support of the Foundation and it’s associated programmes, as well as supporting the pathways we provide of which Will is a product of.

We look forward to watching Will continue his journey and are all proud of his achievements.”

As the first to make the transition to the first-team Will's signing marks a proud first for our 16–19 Programme - and a powerful message to current and future players that professional opportunities are possible through hard work, belief, and the right support system.

First Team Goalkeeping Coach, Kris Dixon, commented:

“We are thrilled that Will has signed his first professional contract at the club. Will has been training with us since October and has grown into his role superbly. The start of a full-time journey as a young professional is always an exciting prospect, and it’s up to Will to grasp the opportunity in front of him, supported by our goalkeeping unit and the top staff, to continue his development over the coming years.”

Will & Head of Foundation Darren Ford (L) signs his professional contract with Crawley Town FC

As we celebrate Will’s new chapter, we also recognise the strength of the partnership between Crawley Town FC and the Foundation. Together, we are striving to always provide meaningful pathways for young people - not only into the world of football but toward brighter futures.

Congratulations, Will!