Draft:Ben Mason (footballer)

Ben Mason (born 19 December 2003) is an English professional footballer who plays as a defender for AFC Wimbledon.

Early life
From the age of five, Mason started playing for the youth sides at his local team Ascot United, before signing for AFC Wimbledon Academy when he was ten. He signed his first professional contract with Wimbledon in June 2022. Mason was the winner of the Nigel Higgs Development Award at AFC Wimbledon after captaining the U18 Academy side to the Youth Alliance South East title. Academy manager Michael Hamilton stated "Ben is often used as an example. To try and explain his attributes - I don’t think I’d have enough time to."

Non-league loans
In August 2022, Mason joined Basingstoke Town on a season-long loan. Manager Dan Brownlie stated "his tenacity, maturity and quality has shone through already." Mason went on to win the double during a successful season with the club, gaining promotion as champions on the final day of the Isthmian League Southern Central season, then going on to win the North Hants Senior Cup. After his loan deal ended, Brownlie stated "Ben has been first class. He’s been fantastic. He’s played a huge part in all our success this season."

In August 2023, Mason joined National League South side Braintree Town on an initial six-month loan. He scored his first goal for the club, and the first professional goal of his career in a 1-1 draw with Farnborough in September 2023.

In January 2024, Mason then joined National League South side Farnborough on a loan deal until the end of the season.

Career Statistics

 * As of match played 14 January 2024