Gillingham’s new youth team recruit has already made a positive impression in the men’s game.
Damien Theodore has joined the junior ranks at Gillingham from Burgess Hill Town.
Theodore has played five league games for the Hillians’ Isthmian South East side this season.
He netted for them on his senior debut in a 2-1 win over East Grinstead Town and featured in games against Sittingbourne and Sheppey United.
His final outing for the non-league side saw him score in a 2-0 win against Hythe Town before Christmas – starting alongside former Gills player Chris Whelpdale.
Burgess Hill are riding high in the table, sitting behind front-runners Ramsgate and Sittingbourne.
Theodore’s first-team opportunities at Burgess Hill came after impressing for their under-18s, playing a key role in helping the team enjoy a fine run in the FA Youth Cup this season.
The team made it further the competition than any other youth side in the club’s history, making it to the third round after a win over Colchester United under-18s.
Theodore got more experience on loan at Southern Combination League side AFC Varndenians and was invited for a trial at Gillingham.
He impressed the club’s coaching staff during a two-week spell, finding the net in a couple of games, and has signed up with Joe Dunne’s youth squad. The Gills have agreed to field a team against the Hillians in a summer friendly match.
Hillians’ first-team boss Gary Mansell said: “Everyone at the club are thrilled for Damien and wish him nothing but success in the next stage of his football journey.
“He joined us a raw but extremely talented forward who just needed a little structure and game awareness. Damien’s approach to learning and willingness to develop has been a credit to him and should serve as an example to his peers and any aspiring young players.
“The exposure to senior football this year for our 1st team and on loan at AFC Varndeanians who have managed him very well has given him the tenacity to go and achieve the next step.
“We are all very proud to have played a small part in his development and look forward to seeing him flourish in a professional environment.”
