We are delighted to announce the signing of midfielder Harrison Hopper for our third new addition of the season.

Harrison Hopper describes Guiseley legend Vinnie Brockie as his ‘favourite ever Academy coach’ and he is now looking to follow in Brockie’s footsteps by becoming a Lions’ favourite himself, writes Rachel O’Connor.

Midfielder Hopper, 24, has joined Guiseley from Warrington Rylands where he played in 35 games last season.

Hopper credits Brockie with getting him his move to Rochdale, where he signed a two year contract with the League One side.

Born in London Hopper’s family soon moved north to the York area. From the ages of nine to 14 he was in the Leeds United Academy playing alongside Guiseley full-back Lucas Odunston.

At the age of 14 he moved to the Barnsley Academy where Brockie was one of his coaches.

Hopper said: “He had a big influence on me, he was a really good coach. When it came time for me to move on he got me to Rochdale. I was close to joining Guiseley Academy at that time as he suggested it would be a good place for me to go to further develop under Dave Currie.”

Following his spell at Rochdale Hopper was signed by York City in 2020. He played 15 times for The Minstermen before being snapped up by Mark Bower for Bradford (Park Avenue).

Of his former Boss Hopper said: “It will be great to again work with Bows and Danny Boshell at Guiseley. They are a great pair to play under and I am really looking forward to joining them at Guiseley.

“I am hoping to help them take the club one step further and get promotion back to the National League North.”

He added: “Guiseley are a big club and I cannot wait to get started. I enjoyed a good season at Warrington Rylands, they are a really good group there and have a good manager but I am looking forward to being at Guiseley.

“I will give it my all for the club and the team, we have a common goal of wanting to gain promotion. I like to tackle and drive forward from midfield and I hope to do that well for Guiseley.”

Apart from playing Hopper enjoys coaching and will complete his B Licence this Summer. He coaches the U-23 squad at Tadcaster Albion and also coaches at Askham Bryan College near York.

Harrison’s away and training kits are both available to sponsor for the season, find more information here or email james.pickles@guiseleyafc.co.uk