Getting to Know – Toby Raison

Hereford FC’s rising star and YouTube sensation Toby Raison answers quickfire questions for Prost International.

Raison is an 18 year-old central defender for Vanarama National League North outfit Hereford FC, who has worked his way from being released to featuring regularly in first team squads at 18. He also documents his journey on his YouTube channel, which is currently sitting on over 15,000 subscribers.

To give a broader background, I asked Toby some quickfire answers to get to know him better.

How did you get into football?

“From a young age, my whole family have been really into football. My first real memories are going to Portman Road, as my family are Ipswich Town fans, and we all still are to this day.

“I don’t live near Ipswich but I always used to go to watch them when I stayed with my Grandparents. I also began playing football with my local Sunday League team at under-six level.”

Who is your biggest sporting idol and why?

“I’d have to say my biggest sporting idol for his work ethic, drive and determination is Cristiano Ronaldo. His attitude towards the game is exemplary, and he looks after himself.

“Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant have really inspired me also, watching documentaries and learning about their preparation has been really good for me despite it not being related to football.”

Have you ever played any other sport? If so, what?

“Not really – I haven’t done much except dabble in a few sports in P.E. in school. I played a bit of Hockey in Sixth Form, and did a bit of Athletics – but Football was always the main sport in my eyes.”

What has been the biggest disappointment of your career so far?

“An easy answer here – being released from Hereford Academy in the Under-13’s.”

Who has had the biggest influence on your career so far?

“Good question. I’d say my coaches at Hereford U-18’s who put a lot of trust in me last season. I got into the team via an open trial and they gave me so much game time. Dan Chance was the manager, and the Head of Academy Andy Bevan was vital in my pathway to the first team.

“Without those sort of opportunities, I wouldn’t where I am now.”

Do you have any pre-match superstitions?

“No, I don’t have superstitions – but I do have a very similar and regular routine which I stick to. It doesn’t matter whether I forget to do a certain thing in a certain order, as I am prepared and ready to go.”

What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?

“My debut for Hereford FC in the FA Trophy. It was back in December, so the fans were allowed in the Stadium and my Mum could watch me.

“She’s been so vital in taking me to different places that it was really important to her, and to me, for her to be there.”

How would you describe yourself in three words?

“I’d say driven, studious and confident. I know where I want to be, I love to learn and improve my game to get there, and I believe in my own ability that I can get there.”

How would your best friends describe you in three words?

“I think they say I’m hard-working for sure. I’d hope they say I’m a laugh and that I’m compassionate too.”

What’s top of your matchday music playlist at the moment?

“I listen to a little bit of everything – but I’m quite mainstream and love a bit of Drake. When we get to the dressing room, I am definitely not in charge of the playlist! If I could choose, I’d whack a bit of Drake on.

If you could have a five-a-side of current players, who would you choose?

“That’s difficult! I’m going to go for players I think would be great specifically for five-a-side.

“In goal, Ederson – absolute joke with his feet. Big Virg (van Dijk) at the back, don’t think you’d need anyone else defending!

“In midfield, I’d go for Lionel Messi – he could pull the strings from deep. I’ll partner him with Kevin de Bruyne as I think he’s got the skills and can provide everything in midfield.

“Up top, I’d stick Robert Lewandowski. One chance, goal. He doesn’t need to think.”

Where will you be in ten years?