Football: Probert set to build on strong debut year

Tom Probert.

Bay of Plenty players are likely to play an increased role on the pitch for WaiBOP United this season with the re-signing of highly rated youngster Tom Probert.

The former Tauranga Boys' College pupil, who made his ASB Premiership debut for WaiBOP United during the 2013/14 season and went on to make 10 appearances for the side, was one of the big movers in the squad last season after originally being listed as one of the club's apprentices.

The 18-year-old made an assured arrival at national league level and became a fixture in coach Peter Smith's side last season: "I think I had a solid debut season and I'm really looking forward to helping the team improve during the upcoming season.

"I'll always be thankful to Peter for giving me my ASB Premiership debut and I'll be looking to repay his faith in me this season."

Smith was surprised at how well Probert acquitted himself last season.

"I've known Tom a long time, ever since I began working with him at age-group level here in the Bay," Smith said. "You could see back then he had something about him, but his performances over the back end of last season surprised even me.

"Tom came into the side when we had a couple of injuries, did his job with a minimum of fuss and, by the end of the season, was one of the first names on my team sheet."

He tipped the defender to go on to bigger and better things: "Tom has all the attributes to be a top-drawer centre-half. Hopefully he can come in, keep improving and make it impossible for me to leave him out."