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From NTU to League Two: NTU alumni Tom Cursons Earns Professional Contract

26 February 2024

Former NTU Men’s Football scholar, Tom Cursons, earns his first professional contract with League Two side Harrogate Town.

Tom Cursons playing in a varsity game versus UoN in 2023

Tom made the move to The Sulphurites in January from non-league side Ilkeston Town, where he played both during his time at NTU and after graduating as part of the class of 2024. Since signing for the club, Tom has made five appearances. Whilst impressing with his performances, the coaching team has made it clear they intend to give him time to "acclimatise" to Football League life.

A prolific goalscorer, Tom’s impressive form in the Northern Premier League, netting 37 goals in his last 40 games, earned him this opportunity in the professional game. His goal-scoring exploits were equally notable for NTU, where he finished as top scorer in the 2023/24 BUCS Premier season with 10 goals in 13 games, the highest level of university football in the country. This success also culminated in Tom’s selection for the English Universities Nations Cup 2024 squad, which saw them take the Nations Cup title with a victory against Wales, with Tom inevitably scoring.

Beyond his individual success, Tom played a key role in a highly successful period for NTU Men’s 1st Team, securing two BUCS Premier League runners-up finishes and reaching a BUCS Championship Final. His leadership was equally recognised off the pitch, where he served as both Club President and 1st Team Captain in his final year.

Tom now joins a growing list of NTU alumni making their mark in the professional game, alongside Marcus Wyllie (Gillingham) and James Gale (Mansfield Town).

Everyone at NTU Sport congratulates Tom on this incredible achievement and wishes him every success in his professional career with Harrogate Town.

Tom Cursons signing for Harrogate town
Tom Cursons signing for Harrogate Town

Photo from: https://www.harrogatetownafc.com/news/2025/january/21/striker-tom-cursons-is-our-fifth-january-arrival/