Waterford FC are delighted to announce that academy star Calum Costello has penned his first professional contract with the club.
After joining the club at the age of the 12, the now 18-year-old becomes the latest academy graduate to be handed his first professional contract after coming up through the ranks of the Waterford FC academy.
After shining for our MU20 side so far this season, Calum was rewarded for his performances with a call-up to the Republic of Ireland U18 schools squad earlier this year, where he scored on his international debut against Australia.
Blues supporters were made well aware of Costello’s ability just last week, as he netted a superb winner with ten minutes to go in this years Munster Senior Cup final, as the Blues defeated Kerry FC to secure their 16th Munster crown. Along with the goal, Calum was named Man of the Match in what was his first senior appearance for the club.
Costello was named on the bench for the Blues’ SSE Airtricity Men’s Premier Division game in Oriel Park last Friday, as Waterford FC defeated Dundalk FC by two-goals-to-nil.
Speaking on Calum’s contract, Waterford FC Head Coach Keith Long said:
“I think it’s important at any football club that the first-team reflects the academy and not the other way round. It’s important to everyone at Waterford FC that we promote our talented players when the opportunity arises. It goes without saying that young players coming through gives everyone a lift from the supporters to coaches and teammates aspiring to transition into a first-team environment.
Calum has lots of potential and is a clever, technically astute footballer who has been nurtured and developed over many years in the academy.
We hope he can continue to develop and grow at the club and look forward to working with him in a senior environment whilst also continuing to play an important role within our MU20 squad.”
Academy Manager Mike Geoghegan was delighted to see Calum rewarded with his first professional contract, commenting:
“Calum joined the Waterford FC Academy at twelve years of age, and immediately caught the eye for the way he played the game. He is a very creative, skilful player who works really hard at his game. He is a pleasure to coach.
He stepped up to the first-team for the Munster Senior Cup last weeks and it didn’t surprise those of us who have worked with him that he scored a super winning goal, He deserves this contract and has joined the first team for full time training. We all look forward to seeing him progress.”
Calum also spoke to us on how proud he is to receive this contract, saying:
“I’m delighted to have signed a professional contract with the club – it’s a very proud moment for me. As I’ve seen recently, it’s a great environment to be in, and one where I can see myself continuing to improve & learn from the players & staff.”
Calum has been handed the number 38 shirt for the first-team for the remainder of the 2024 League of Ireland season. Both Calum’s home & away jerseys are now available to sponsor. Contact commercial@waterfordfc.ie to find out more.
