Whittaker ‘Privileged’ To Win Academy Player of the Year

Hibs defender Rory Whittaker admitted he felt extremely privileged to pick up the 2023/24 Hibernian FC Academy Player of the Year Award.

Rory claimed the prize after a sensational breakthrough season for the youngster.

Initially playing U18s at the start of the season, Rory wrote his name in the Hibernian FC record books by becoming the Club’s youngest-ever First Team player when he came off the bench against St Johnstone in September.

The right back was aged just 16 years old and 44 days at the time and backed up an impressive debut display, with a further 14 First Team appearances during the 2023/24 campaign.

Speaking at the Hibernian FC Player of the Year Awards, Rory admitted it has been a whirlwind of a season.

“It is a very proud moment for me. It has been a good season for me and very hectic at the same time. I can’t take it for granted and I am really privileged to win this award.

“All the coaches made it clear that the debut was just the first milestone and that I needed to keep going. I feel I managed to do that this season, I managed to grab a few more opportunities to play more First Team games.

On the international front, Rory earned his first Scotland U19s cap in February 2024 – topping of memorable season and the Hibs right back admits this year has given him a taste for more.

“I am really happy that I managed to play so many games this season, and I will take a lot on board going into next season.”

“The coaches have done a lot for me. In particular the Academy coaches, Boozy, Daz and Gareth Evans. Last year in the U18s they were brilliant with me and since I have started playing full time they have done so much for me and I can’t thank them enough.

“I have to do what I did last year, go into pre-season with the same mindset and attitude as last season and take it from there!”