Academy 1-100: Ollie Stephenson

In the 1-100 series, our Young Hornets choose seven numbers between 1 and 100, answering questions that correspond to each specific digit.

Next up is Ollie Stephenson, who has featured for Tom Cleverley’s Under-18s squad so far this season.

The dynamic full-back joined Watford in March 2023, having previously been on the books at Reading.

77 - What’s a fact about yourself that no one else will know?

When I was younger, I used to be the ISA national running champion. People know I run, but I used to be the best in my age group out of all the independent schools in the country. My distances were 600m, 800m and 1500m. I got a few medals, which was nice.

95 - What’s your most irritating habit?

I crack my knuckles, which I know annoys some people!

50 - You’re only allowed to hold on to five personal belongings, what are you keeping?

My phone, my iPad, my trainers, my football boots and a ball.

47 - If you could pick the brains of any other athlete, who would it be and why?

Reece James. He’s who I aspire to be like. I would love to know how he does things and the way he goes about it. His dedication and focus to being one of the best in his position is amazing, especially coming back from injury, which I can relate to.

67 - If you had the ability to live forever, who are the people that you would most want to share it with (family excluded)?

Definitely Amar Sanghrajka and some of my childhood friends who I have known since I was younger. Shout out to Sam, who I have known since I was a baby.

7 - The rest of the world has banned all international travel from Great Britain and we’re stuck on this island. You have a two-week break, where are you going?

Central London. There are some really nice places, restaurants and shops. I haven’t been for a while, but that would be really good.

100 - Best thing about your country?

In Jamaica, I love the culture and everyone is really together and supportive of each other. In England, I just love the opportunities we have.