Joe Aribo has become the 10th Kinetic Academy graduate to be signed by a pro club after he penned a one-year deal with Charlton Athletic.
The 19-year-old twice lit up the Gothia Cup during his two years at Kinetic with his surging runs from centre midfield.
He received employability and CV guidance on the part-time programme, which included volunteering at the London Youth Games.
But after impressing at Ryman Premier League side Staines Town last season, Aribo has now been snapped up by the Addicks.
He joins up with Charlton’s U21s – managed by Jason Euell – having played at Staines under Marcus Gayle where he scooped the academy players’ player of the year award.
Kinetic head coach Harry Hudson, who coached Aribo in the 2012/13 season, thinks his attitude to playing helped him stand out.
He said: “I’m really pleased for Joe.
“He was a very popular member of our group who had a great attitude and always had a smile on his face.
“I know he’s going to make a good impression at Charlton.
“He’s a great example of how the right temperament is just as important as ability.”
Aribo is the 10th graduate to join a pro club in the last 14 months, following goalkeeper Meli Istrefi and Dean Davis’s moves to Charlton.
Wes Fonguck and Ryan Gondoh signed for Barnet, Myles Kenlock, Stephane Bombelenga and Kolade Salaudeen all penned deals at Ipswich Town.
Josh Maja joined Sunderland and Omar Richards signed for Reading.