Football Queensland (FQ) celebrates the announcement that FQ Academy graduate and Brisbane Roar striker Thomas Waddingham has signed with EFL Championship side Portsmouth FC.
The announcement represents a major milestone in the young striker’s career, showcasing not only his exceptional talent but also the impact of the solid foundations he developed during his formative years in the FQ Academy pathway.
Originally from Far North Queensland, Thomas’ football journey with Cairns club Edge Hill United saw him join the FQ Academy in 2015 at just 10 years old, where his potential quickly became evident. Thomas’ skill and commitment saw him impress at FQ Academy State Carnivals (formerly TSP State Carnivals), earning him a place in Queensland State Teams and later the Brisbane Roar FC Academy Under 18 squad.
By 2023, his standout performances in the NPL Queensland in Brisbane Roar’s U23’s squad saw him sign his first professional A-League scholarship with Brisbane Roar at the age of 18, where he continued to excel at the senior level in the Isuzu UTE A-League, paving his way to the highly competitive elite English football pyramid.
“Thomas’ progression from the FQ Academy to professional football is a testament to his hard work, determination, and the development opportunities he has embraced along the way,” FQ General Manager – Football & State Technical Director Gabor Ganczer said.
“His success reflects the importance of the FQ Academy in providing structured pathways and support for young players, helping to guide them from grassroots to professional levels.
“Featuring in Australia’s U23 Olyroos and U20s Young Socceroos squads in recent years, Thomas’ story adds to the growing list of both male and female players from the FQ Academy and Queensland making significant contributions to Australia’s national teams and elite clubs on the global stage.
“Thomas’ story will undoubtedly inspire young players across Queensland, particularly those from regional areas, highlighting further the opportunities that exist for talented players within our state, and the critical role the FQ Academy plays in helping them achieve their goals on both national and international stages.”
Football Queensland congratulates Thomas on his milestone achievement and wishes him continued success as he begins his journey in England with Portsmouth FC.