After four years in Hartlepool United’s academy, defender Ollie Duthie has made the decision to step away from football and pursue a full-time career in software with long-standing Club partner Evolution Risk Assurance.

Over the past six months, the 20-year-old has balanced both roles and excelled during his time with the Hartlepool-based firm. He will now focus fully on his new career, having made the difficult decision to leave the sport to which he has dedicated his life.

Born in Hartlepool, Duthie developed a passion for football at a young age. His talent was quickly recognised, and at just nine, he was signed by Middlesbrough Football Club.

He spent seven years in Boro’s academy, progressing through the various age groups, before departing at 16 to sign a full-time scholarship with Hartlepool – fulfilling a lifelong dream after attending Victoria Park as a season ticket holder alongside his Grandad as a child.

Speaking to the Club’s website, Duthie said: “I’ve absolutely loved it from the first moment I joined the club, he confirmed. “Being able to play full-time football from the moment I left school has been a dream.

“It’s always provided me with a routine and taught me discipline in showing up every day and always wanting to improve myself as a footballer, but also as a person.

“The club’s program has supported me to become the young man I am today.”

Evolution Risk Assurance serve as the Club’s Official First Team Travel Sponsor for the 2026/27 campaign, a relationship dating back to 2019, and Duthie is looking forward to getting started in his new role.

“I’m looking forward to getting started full time, he confirmed. “I joined in March, and I’ve really enjoyed my time with the company.

“I’ve always had my future in mind as I’m aware football will not last forever, and I believe this opportunity has come at the right time for me to step away from the sport.

“It’s been a difficult decision, and balancing both has been tough, he said. “But the full-time role with Evolution is one I wanted to take with both hands.”

The right-back, known for his gritty performances on the pitch, highlighted the importance of the people around him during his four years at the Club, acknowledging that their commitment played a significant role in his development.

“I would like to thank all of my coaches from over the years, especially Alex (Cross), who has got a lot out of me as a player.

“I’ve struggled with injuries at times, and he’s always been on hand to support me during difficult periods, which has given me the confidence to bounce back.

“The physio team have also been great; Sukhy (Sukhraj Dillon) and Mel (Melody Jones) have always provided me with encouraging advice following the setbacks I’ve encountered.”

As a boyhood Pools supporter, Duthie leaves with many fond memories, from watching on the terraces to playing on the hallowed turf at Victoria Park and departs knowing he achieved a lifelong dream.

“I’ll miss it all, from the away days on the coach, seeing the lads at training every day to representing the club I support; I’ve loved it all.

“Growing up, I used to watch Pools with my Grandad, and I always dreamt of playing for the club, so being able to play at Victoria Park a few times has been a dream.

“One game that sticks out is Port Vale away in my second year. I gave away a penalty in the first half, but scored the winning goal in the last minute, which was an unbelievable feeling.”

Academy Manager and Under-21 Lead Coach Alex Cross praised Duthie for his contribution and commitment, while also highlighting the opportunities available within the Club’s academy.

“Ollie’s been great to work with over the past few seasons, Cross said. “He’s been a credit to the club throughout, and while we will be losing an infectious character, the academy is proud to have played a positive role in Ollie’s life since joining us at 16.

“It’s important to celebrate success stories, and this one shows the academy is much more than just football.

“This opportunity will help set him up for life whilst he continues his footballing journey at FC Hartlepool, he confirmed. “We wish him the best of luck in the future.”

Duthie’s love for the game will continue on Saturday afternoons with local side FC Hartlepool, who compete in Northern League Division Two.