Leeds United are proud to announce Ollie Pickles has won the club’s Scholar of the Year award, recognised at a Premier League ceremony at Wembley Stadium.

The award recognises an Academy player from the Under-18s age group who has excelled in all aspects of the scholarship programme and serves as a role model for other players.

As well as Ollie’s impressive displays for Scott Gardner’s Under-21s side this term, the midfielder has also excelled through his Sporting Excellence Professional qualification (SEP) alongside his additional education at Thorp Arch, support and contribution to wider activities within the club’s Academy.

Speaking after the 18-year-old had been recognised, Callum Williams, Academy Player Care Lead, said: “Ollie has been an excellent role model throughout the entirety of his scholarship programme and is fully deserving of this award. He has shown great consistency and commitment in his performances on the pitch, becoming a regular in the U21 side and occasionally training with the first team squad.

“What has been particularly impressive is the way he has managed the requirements of multiple schedules and environments, balancing the increased footballing demands alongside the education and wider responsibilities in a mature and professional manner.

“In addition to his on-pitch success, Ollie has also applied himself extremely well to the educational side of the programme. His attitude towards learning, development and day-to-day standards has been outstanding, and he is always willing to contribute positively to Academy and club activities. Ollie has been a pleasure to work with; he always carries himself in a professional manner and sets a strong example for all of those around him.”

Under-21 boss Gardner added: “He has progressed massively both on and off the pitch. I think he is a perfect example to all the younger players in the Academy of what a young professional should be.

“I can’t compliment Ollie highly enough about how he commits himself on and off the pitch. He doesn’t cut corners. He approaches the work in the gym and in the classroom in the same way he does the work on the grass. I think he is a massive compliment to every member of staff at the Academy and his family.”

Congratulations Ollie!