Pro-Direct Soccer Academy graduate Ben Gladwin is enjoying life as a full-time pro at Swindon Town FC. With some goals and assists now under his belt, Gladwin has been one of the reasons for Town's push up the league 1 table. Manager Mark Cooper labelled him a "shining example" of the talent that can develop through non-league football. Berkshire-born Gladwin came through the Pro-Direct Soccer Academy system. Incredibly he was released by Reading FC at the age of 14 because he was deemed too small. Now standing 6ft 3ins tall, he has been handed a two-and-a-half year deal. Cooper also describes Ben as being the best player in training at Swindon. 

"I've come a really long way. Just over a year ago I was working in removals, so I guess I'm living the dream." says Ben. Swindon boss Cooper has been so pleased with Gladwin's progress that he has offered him a two-and-a-half year deal with the club. Even Robins Chairman Lee Power has been impressed, commenting "I am delighted Ben has agreed to a long-term deal to stay at our club. As soon as I spoke to Ben about signing he just said 'when can I sign, Chairman?' which pleased me so much." The versatile midfielder now has his sight set on progression to the Championship.