Stephen joined Pontefract Collieries during the closed season before the start of the 2011-12 campaign, and is making the left-back position his own after some fine, assured displays.

Stephen joined the club from Burnley, where he also played at left back for the Reserves and U18s throughout last season, having played all across the back line during five seasons as a junior at Scunthorpe United. Although Edwards considers himself a centre-half, Colls’ manager Brendon Ormsby was seeking a left back who could provide excellent defensive work with good link play going forward. Stephen has slotted into the role, and his fine performances have been one of the reasons why the Colls’ defence has been so miserly during the early months of the season. At the time of writing (mid-November 2011) the Colls back-five quintet of Stephen, ‘keeper Lee Kelsey, opposing full-back Dean Twibey, and centre-half pairings of Tom Robinson plus one from Johnny Forsyth, Jack Hill, Gary Lumley and Gareth Roberts has been the tightest in the league – perhaps aided by the fact that four out of the five players have been almost ever-present, with only Robinson’s partner at centre half being alternated, through the departure of Forsyth and injuries.

As well as being increasingly solid in defence, Stephen is good on the ball, and regularly offers the team enhanced width and control going forward, and adds to the team’s attacking options. Although he is not “the flashy sort” who commands headlines, Stephen is winning many plaudits for his steady, reliable form. He has been described as the team’s “Dennis Irwin” – another right-footed player who excelled at left-back, and who shares many attributes with Stephen.

Still only 18, Stephen is also young enough to play in the Academy side, and is seeking a full-time career in the game. Stephen was introduced to the club by Ian Burchnall, and is starting the Sports Coaching Degree which is being launched by the Colls’ Football Development Manager this September. Stephen hopes to involve his three-year degree course with building his football career.

Stephen is also a Pontefract lad, born and bred, adding to the growing number of talented local boys in the squad.

Date of birth / age: 09/12/1992 (18)
Year joined the Colls: 2011
Previous clubs: Burnley FC U18′s
Position: Left Back/ Centre Back
Footballing ambition: To play at the highest level that I can
Job: Studying sports coaching
Family: Mum: Shelagh,  Dad: Duncan,   Brother: Adam
Biggest influence in football career: Mum and Dad
Greatest character in the Colls dressing room: Connor, hes a top comedian!
Nicknames:            Dennis!
Team you support: Leeds United
Favourite player: Luciano Becchio
Why?: He’s class
Favourite player of all time: Lucas Radebe
Why?: My hero!
Best game ever watched: Man United 0-1 Leeds United Fa Cup 3rd round. Say no more!
Favourite TV programme?: Friends, Celebrity Juice, Soccer AM
Favourite film?: Hangover, Any Rocky Film and American Pie
Musical tastes – favourite bands/artists? Chris Brown, Rihanna
Favourite food?: My mums chicken rissotto!
Favourite car?: Any that works!