A WINGER is combining college education with a professional football contract.

Vinnie Steels becomes the first Darlington College sports with football coaching course student to be scouted and turn professional after signing an 18-month contract with York City.

The 16-year-old level three sport science student from Seaton Carew, who is also part of the Martin Gray Football Academy, plays on the left wing and made his debut in the 5-2 win against Hartlepool reserves.

As well as developing his considerable footballing skills, he will study sports science at Darlington College including anatomy, physiology and sports coaching.

Mr Gray said: “Vinnie is my first student from Darlington College to turn professional which is a massive endorsement of what we are trying to achieve here.

Mr Steels added: “My dream is to play football professionally for as long as I can and hopefully for my country one day.

“The course is really good as we play a lot of football in the morning then study in the afternoon, which will be so useful if I ever want to go into coaching.”