College footballers shine with Doncaster Rovers

Two promising young footballers from Hartlepool College are proving that success on the pitch and excellence in the classroom go hand-in-hand. Lincoln Pawlak and Alex Pavan, both 17, are currently balancing the intense demands of professional football development at EFL League One side Doncaster Rovers with their academic studies at Hartlepool College.

The link-up is already delivering significant results, and Lincoln has recently celebrated signing a two-year professional contract with the South Yorkshire club. Both players are studying for a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching - a qualification equivalent to three A Levels - providing them with a vital academic safety net for the future.

The daily training at Doncaster’s Cantley Park and his studies in Hartlepool have been key to Lincoln’s progression. Lincoln, a centre-back from Yarm who is on loan at Ossett Town, said: “The college has been great - the course is really engaging as it aligns with what we’re doing in the apprenticeship, and both aspects of work mix together well. I’ve been able to take the learning from the academic course and apply it to the apprenticeship and vice versa. I’m looking forward to having a good qualification to fall back on if needed. I’m excited to move on in life and have that safety net no matter what happens.” Doncaster teammate Alex, from Northallerton and currently on loan at Hebburn, highlighted how the curriculum directly supports his physical performance.

The talented winger said: “The college course is very enjoyable and the teachers are supportive. We learn about various aspects of sport that support our football training, such as content related to diet and nutrition. At Doncaster Rovers, the training is high quality, but I know my education and qualifications will always be there. The success of the duo has impressed Ian Clark, Hartlepool College’s Head of Performance. As a former Doncaster Rovers winger himself, Clark has seen firsthand the dedication required to bridge the gap between youth and professional football.

Ian said: “After teaching Lincoln and Alex last year, both lads had the opportunity at the start of the 25/26 season to move to League One side Doncaster Rovers. We were then approached by Doncaster and the players to continue and complete their full 12-unit Extended Diploma. The lads come in around their training schedule and work very hard and diligently to complete work.”

Ian added, “Their attitude and application are outstanding. More fantastic news was the fact that Lincoln was given a two-year professional contract in October, and both players often train with the first team. We as a college are proud of their achievements.” Regular communication between Doncaster and the college ensures the players remain grounded while striving to become EFL footballers.

Stuart Swift, Head of Academy at Doncaster Rovers, said: "Both Lincoln and Alex have applied themselves really well in our building since joining the club. They have both contributed to the U18 achievements so far and are developing individually. They have a good work ethic, which is evident in the work they are doing at Hartlepool College, and they engage with analysis and the wider multidisciplinary team programme. Both lads are now gaining experience on loan in non-league, which is imperative to their individual journeys and gaining an understanding of senior men's football."

Hartlepool College believe Lincoln and Alex serve as role models for young athletes in the area, demonstrating that with the right support system, it is possible to chase a professional dream alongside vital studies.