READING Football Clubs ace centre-back Jake Cooper, 20, went back to school on Thursday October 1. Jake was revisiting Forest School and meeting year seven pupils who are considering Forest as the next step in their academic career.
“Sport is so good at this school”, said Jake. “The teachers really helped me, not only with my football but other areas of my life.”
Forest School, Winnersh has a close relationship with Reading Football Club, London Irish Rugby Club, and Finchampstead Cricket Club with boys from Reading FC Academy coming to the school to play sport and also study.
Jake started his football career at a young age by playing football for Forest School team when he was spotted by Reading Football Club and taken into their Academy at 14 years old. He graduated through Reading’s system playing for the under 18’s and under 21 teams until now he plays regularly in the first team.
Talking about encouragement in his life, as well as his ex-sports teacher, Mr Eagesham, Jake’s inspiration came from his own family; especially his father, Alan Cooper, who was also a footballer and played for Reading.
Jake is noticing a difference playing for the first team. “The intensity of play and also the speed and strength of the players is so much harder at this level”, he said. “You have to concentrate much harder when you play”.
Although Jake is still only 20 he is loving the football life so far. “I would definitely recommend aspiring to playing football if you love the game”. he said.
