Wilson Family Making Waves in Hearts’ Youth Academy
The Wilson family is quickly becoming a familiar name at Hearts, with not just one but three brothers progressing through the Riccarton youth academy.
Seventeen-year-old James Wilson has already made an impact, breaking into the first team in 2023 and scoring five goals this season. However, he isn’t the only Wilson making a name for himself—his younger twin brothers, Alfie and Stanley, are following in his footsteps.
Part of Hearts’ under-16 squad, the twins are eager to reach the same heights. Alfie, a right-back, has already featured for the club’s under-18 side, while Stanley, a central midfielder, recently represented Scotland’s under-16s in a UEFA development tournament in Cyprus. The idea of all three Wilson brothers playing together for the first team is not just a dream but a real possibility.
“We’ve talked about all three of us playing for Hearts at the same time. We even joke that we’d make a strong five-a-side team,” James said with a smile. “They’re both doing really well. Stanley enjoyed his time with Scotland, and Alfie has been getting more minutes for the under-18s. They push each other because they’re always competing. I try to give them advice and share what I’ve learned from watching them.”
A Sporting Family with Academic Ambitions
Despite their footballing talent, James and his brothers are also encouraged to prioritize their education. Their parents, Michael and Louise, emphasize a balanced approach.
“We’re not sure where the football ability comes from,” James joked. “My dad’s a golfer, not a footballer! My mum never played either, but she reckons she could have been a footballer if she had.”
James currently attends Balerno High School, located near Hearts’ training ground, where he studies Advanced Higher PE and Higher Maths. Balancing school with professional football is no easy task, as he only attends classes once a week, making self-discipline crucial.
“It takes a conscious effort to stay on top of schoolwork. I do most of it at home, and my teachers have been really supportive, sending me assignments to catch up on. My Higher Maths exam is on May 14—I don’t think it clashes with a match, but I better check!”
Education remains important to him as a backup plan in case his football career takes an unexpected turn.
“Football is my main focus, but you never know what can happen. One injury could change everything. My parents both went to university, and they’ve always emphasized the importance of education. It’s the same for my brothers.”
Juggling Football, Studies, and a Growing Reputation
James has learned to manage his time effectively. As part of his PE coursework, he even arranged for his teacher to watch him play in Hearts’ recent match against Rangers at Tynecastle.
“Thirty percent of the grade is based on practical performance, so I got my teacher a ticket for the game. Hopefully, I passed because I thought I played well!”
While James initially considered university, he admits he isn’t sure what he would study, though business is an option that interests him.
As he turns 18 next week, celebrations will be low-key, with Hearts focused on securing a top-six Premiership finish and a potential European spot, along with a Scottish Cup semi-final place.
“I don’t have anything planned—there’s too much going on,” he admitted.
Attending Balerno High means he is following in the footsteps of Hearts legend Craig Gordon, whose picture hangs on the school’s wall.
“I see it every time I walk past. I wouldn’t say I’m a celebrity, but younger students now see me as a footballer rather than just another student. That’s been weird to get used to.”
Although his own picture isn’t up yet, James revealed that he is planning to donate a shirt to the school soon. “That will be a proud moment,” he said. “Right now, the janitor still gives me weird looks, but I think he’s finally getting used to it!”
That same janitor once asked James if he had watched the Edinburgh derby against Hibs—only to be surprised when James told him he had scored the equalizer in the 1-1 draw. As James’ profile continues to rise, it might not be long before all three Wilson brothers are making their mark in Hearts’ first team.
