Callum Tripp has signed his first senior professional contract with MK Dons.
Tripp, 17, has been involved with the Club since Under-8s and has now put pen-to-paper on professional terms at Stadium MK.
The midfielder is the third Academy graduate to sign a professional contract this season, along with Joel Anker and Charlie Waller, who penned deals earlier in the summer.
Before signing his professional deal, Callum Tripp gained vast experience within the first-team setup from just 15 years of age.
This saw many opportunities for the young Don to train alongside senior players, which granted him the opportunity to make his senior MK Dons debut against Cheltenham Town in last season’s EFL Trophy campaign.
More recently, the young player made his full debut for MK Dons in this season’s EFL Trophy opener against Chelsea Under-21s.
Following his signature as an MK Dons professional, Tripp had this to say: “I’m over the moon to be able to sign this contract.
“It’s my boyhood club and it’s an unbelievable feeling to sign my pro here. I can’t wait to get going and continue to push on, because this has shown me that all the hard work that I’ve put in over the years has really paid off.
“I want to thank my family and all the Coaches, especially at MK Dons, who have helped to give me this pro contract. Now, it’s about continuing that hard work
“It’s been a great journey so far, but I’m only young and hopefully there’s still many more years to come. I want to give everything to this Club.”
MK Dons Head Coach Graham Alexander also shared his insight on Callum Tripp’s professional contract decision: “What we’ve seen from Callum Tripp is a lad that is dedicated to his job, he’s super motivated and wants to break into the first team as quick as possible.
The Head Coach also touched on the proud moment for the Club as yet another Academy graduate signs their pro deal “It’s the work that these lads put in behind the scenes away from the bright lights of the first-team environment that pays dividends.
“But we must stress that becoming a professional is only one part of the journey that they’re on, it’s nowhere near the end of it. This doesn’t change their circumstances - we value all our players whether they’re Scholars or professionals.”
Since joining MK Dons’ youth system at eight-years-old, Callum Tripp has spent the majority of his development with Lead PDP Head Coach John Bitting. When questioned about the professional signing of Callum, Bitting replied “I’m immensely proud.
“I’ve been lucky enough to be given the opportunity to work with Callum since Under-11s, so it’s been a long time that I’ve witness his progression and growth. Not only as a player, but as a young man.
“It’s a hugely proud moment for myself and all of the Academy staff. We’re incredibly proud of all the players that progress on.”
