Academy Player of the Year 2018 Jordan Helliwell says winning this award came as a shock to him.
The young right-back was chosen to receive the accolade by Academy Manager Bobby Hassell, who oversees the development and progress of the Oakwell fledglings.
“I’m over the moon - I wasn’t expecting it at all,” said Helliwell. “I’ve worked hard and just really wasn’t expecting this.
“I’ve played quite a lot of games for the under 16s and then, towards the end of the season I’ve been playing for the under 18s as well.
“I’m looking to kick on, come back in pre-season and develop further with the coaches.”
Helliwell is versatile, and has the ability to adapt to a central midfield role with minimal fuss when required.
The 16-year-old has featured regularly for Martin Devaney’s U18s and credits the Academy coaches for his continuous development this campaign.
“They help you improve your weaknesses and develop as a player,” continued Helliwell.
“I have a good relationship with the coaches - they’ve helped me and guided me to where I’ve got my Scholarship and hopefully to progress on further.”
A local lad and a Barnsley fan, Helliwell is overjoyed to be playing for the Club that he loves.
However, one of the best things about representing the Reds is the relationship and camaraderie that he has with his teammates at the Academy.
“They’re a good bunch of lads,” said Helliwell. “If you do something wrong they help you to improve and it’s a really good laugh around the changing rooms.”