League One Reading sign youngster to professional contract in latest move of Rob Couhig era
Bradfield College sixth former, Carter-Blue Bowdery, has been offered a professional contract by Reading Football Club when he leaves the Berkshire independent boarding school this summer.
Carter-Blue, who has been a pupil at Bradfield since he was 13, has been a key member of Reading’s U18 squad this season, scoring a goal for them in the final of the Premier League U18 Cup last month.
The central midfielder was also part of the College’s 1st XI winning consecutive ISFA Boodles’ Cup Finals in 2024 and 2025, the most prestigious award in independent schools’ football.
Carter-Blue’s contract commences in late June, just one week after he finishes his A-Levels.
“I was quietly confident going into the end of season review meeting that I would be staying at the club, but I was still delighted to receive the offer and am excited for what the future holds,” he said.
Carter-Blue described how important the College’s support has been in achieving his dream to become a professional footballer.
He said that his Housemasters, subject teachers, and football staff always worked together to ensure he was on top of his academic studies, while making the most of the opportunities Reading FC offered.
He added that David Chatwin, Head of Football Performance, was always available to give him advice, not just on his performances for the College, but also spending time with him reflecting on his games for Reading and giving feedback and guidance to help him constantly improve.
Chatwin, who joined Bradfield in 2023, described the College’s approach towards supporting talented players through the school:
"We are committed to fostering the development of our pupils both academically and personally, and it is with great pride that we were able to support Carter-Blue Bowdery on his journey.
“Through the understanding, dedication and collaboration between myself, Elizabeth Wells, Deputy Head Academic, and the invaluable partnership with Reading FC, Carter-Blue has been able to pursue his passion for football while maintaining high standards in his academic studies.
“This remarkable achievement is a testament to the strength of our approach to support and encourage pupils to nurture their exceptional talent on and off the pitch.
“We have a group of pupils currently playing academy and ISFA representative football, who have the potential to follow in Carter-Blue’s footsteps.
“We are thrilled to see Carter-Blue's hard work pay off with a well-deserved professional contract, and we look forward to supporting him in the future.”
Carter-Blue is the latest Bradfieldian to win a professional contract in recent years. Others include:
Sam Tabares – Fulham 2024 and now Southampton
Callum McFarlane – Fulham 2022
Jacob Roddy – Charlton Athletic 2021
Ed Cooke – Burnley 2019
