SHINE: Back of the net for Salendine Nook High School pupil

Jul 10 2009 by Katie Grant, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

YOUNGSTERS in Huddersfield have got bags of talent.

And we’re celebrating their gifts – in all their many forms.

The Examiner is partnering national Shine Week to showcase talented youngsters who really shine.

Today we report on star footballer Jordan McLeod.

Jordan, 15, of Brackenhall, plays for Barnsley Football Club and trains three times a week with the Oakwell club’s under 16s.

Jordan, who is in Year 10 at Salendine Nook High School, will also use his talents to help coach Year 7 pupils at his New Hey Road school next year.

Dad Roy, 46, a joiner, said: “He has a lot of natural talent but even when you’ve got lots of talent you still have to put the work in.

“He’s definitely a practical person but also works hard academically.

“He’s very focused on his football and hopes to get a scholarship with Barnsley after the end of this next year.

“He’s been playing since he was about nine-years-old and wants to carry on with his football and succeed.”

Salendine Nook lets Jordan off from his studies one day a week so he can hone his skills as a forward at Barnsley FC.

The talented teen trains three times a week with the under 16 team and travels the country to play on match days.

But being a star in football isn’t enough for Arsenal fan Jordan.