Staitham Bowen | Joining Swansea was an easy decision
New arrival Staitham Bowen says it was an easy decision to make the switch to south Wales after linking up with Swansea City Under-21s.
Bowen has put pen to paper on a two-year deal in SA1 with an option of an additional 12 months, having most recently been on the books at Premier League side Brentford as a scholar.
Having previously spent time with the Swans development side during a successful trial earlier in the year, Bowen admits Swansea quickly became the standout option and he is eager to begin the next chapter of his career.
"I'm very happy to be here, the coaches are amazing and the boys are a top group, so I'm looking forward to getting down to work this year," said Bowen.
"I had a short trial earlier this year. Swansea stood out to me the most, and I had an amazing time during my trial here.
"It was a great experience, and I made the right decision. I can't wait."
Bowen arrived in SA1 following spells with several clubs throughout his academy career and believes his journey has prepared him for the next step in his development as a professional.
The defender was most recently a scholar at west London side, Brentford. In his first season for the Bees, he made 14 appearances for the under-18s, scoring one goal.
"I started at Oldham Athletic before going to Liverpool, where I stayed for around two years around Covid time," he added.
"After the pandemic, I went to Burnley before Brentford came about and I signed there as a scholar. I've had a lot of great times leading up to this moment.
"Signing your first professional contract is a big moment, and I'm so glad I get to do that at Swansea. It's a really proud moment for me and my family.
"My football journey has been full of ups and downs, but it's shaped who I am as a person and player today."
And sport has always been prominent in the Bowen household.
Bowen's younger brothers represent Liverpool and Preston North End at youth level respectively.
"My whole life has been about football. If I'm not training, I'll be watching football or having a kick about with my brothers," he said.
"Even my sister is really sporty, she players netball for England Under-17s. Everything really revolves around sport in our house.
"Growing up, me and my brothers have always really been at different clubs. My parents have been incredible for all of us to make sure we chase our dreams of playing football, and have travelled absolutely everywhere for us."
Standing at 6ft 2in, Bowen is regarded as a highly physical and technical player who can add aggression and dominance to the Swansea defence.
The defender believes the weeks ahead will be crucial as the age-grade side prepare for the new season, and he hopes his individual qualities can complement the squad and make an impact on the pitch.
"I want to get as fit as possible, really gel with the group and get some good pre-season minutes under my belt," added Bowen.
"I'm quite a physical player and I really want to bring that to the teams' backline. We have a lot of strong players, and we want to go on to win something this year, as I know the boys have been close to silverware over the last few years.
"I am looking to get off to a good start as an individual and as a team. I'm really excited to get going."