Pools Academy graduate, Louis Stephenson, has reflected on the last two years of his development at the Club.
The right-back made several appearances at the start of this season before departing the Prestige Group Stadium on loan.
Now, Stephenson is back in the team and made his 30th Pools appearance last weekend.
“I’ve really enjoyed being back,” he explained.
“I was training with the first team on a daily basis during my loan spells, but I was always determined to do well and get back into the squad.
“I want to play games for this football club – it means a lot to me and I’m just eager to do well.
“I went to Blyth Spartans for a month and it was strange. They were struggling in the league and it was a period of transition for them on and off the pitch. Looking back, it was a good experience to learn from being in that environment.
“I then went to Whitby Town for three months, I really enjoyed my time here. Gary Liddle was fantastic with me – he knows what it means to play for Hartlepool and he gave me so much support and advice.
“My first time meeting the lads at Whitby was playing with them. I didn’t train beforehand – I signed and was straight on the pitch. That was a good experience because I had to focus and impress almost immediately.
“There were a lot of professionals at Whitby that made me feel welcome straight away – the likes of Lewis Hawkins and Nathan Thomas who used to play at Pools. That move definitely helped me.”
During his 30 games at the Prestige Group Stadium, Stephenson has grown into a fans’ favourite, even winning the Man of the Match award against Halifax Town last year.
“I want to do my best for the team,” he stated.
“That’s whether I’m starting or whether I can provide support to the lads out on the pitch.
“We want to get points on the board and get this place rocking again – the fans are the bloodline of this club and I want to play well for them.
“My relationship with the fans is a special one. They really boost me – when I hear their encouragement it makes me even more determined to get stuck in.
“The fans deserve success and I’m always grateful for their support.”
Stephenson finished by reflecting on his development over the last two years.
With two loan spells and several runs in the first team, Stephenson has admitted his surprise of his growth.
“I’ve matured a lot,” he added.
“When I look back to making my senior debut against Harrogate Town, I just turned 17, I was probably the most nervous person in the stadium.
“I’m so much more relaxed and confident now. I probably didn’t think back then that I’d change this much.
“Different situations that I’ve been through over the last two years – whether that’s going out on loan or managerial changes – they’ve helped me learn and develop.
“Hopefully I can continue to grow and do well in the blue and white shirt.”
