Yori Griffith | Pro deal a "dream come true"

Under-18s' midfielder Yori Griffith says it's a "dream come true" to sign his first professional contract at  Swansea City after eight years with the club.

The deal secures the youngster’s future at the club until June 2026, with the option of an additional 12 months.

The 17-year-old has been at the Swans since under-10 level and has progressed through the ranks, signing his scholarship prior to the 2023-24 season.

The midfielder played in every game in the under-18s' Professional Development League Cup campaign, on their way to reaching the final against Millwall at The Den.

"I'm over the moon to have signed my first professional contract here, it's something I've always had on my mind that I want to achieve,' said Griffith.

"To sign, whilst still in my second year of my scholarship, feels extra special because I feel like I've proved myself when I've been given the opportunity at a higher level.

"I'm also grateful for the trust the coaches and club have given me, they've helped me so much.

"It feels good to be back for pre-season, and now I've secured my place here for another two years, I want to push myself for more first-team experience."

Griffith - who hails from Haverfordwest - made his first under-21s' start in the development side’s 2-1 loss away to Wigan Athletic at the DW Stadium in March, scoring on his full debut. 

"Playing for the under-21s is always an amazing experience, and especially when I got a goal on my first start, at a stadium.," added Griffith.

"Last season, I really found my rhythm and it went really well. I was on the bench for the under-21s' Nathaniel MG Cup Final and then I played 90 minutes in the PDL Cup final.

"As a group, we were all so disappointed to have lost the final. But, looking back, the way we won each game to reach the final was incredible, the boys are amazing."

The teenager has his sights set on continuing to get improve as he works to fully overcome a leg injury sustained at the end of the 2023-24 campaign.

"I want to keep improving, training with the first team more consistently and work on improving my game. I don't have much of my rehab left, and I can't wait to get back out on the pitch," he said.

"Now that I’ve secured my future here, I can keep going as I am, keep progressing and I can’t wait for what the next two years have in store."