Wendover-born youngster, Jack Tompkins has become Mark Jones’ latest signing for this season. Tompkins first linked up with Mark Jones at Barnet as Jack impressed in its academy set-up. In December 2018, at still only 17, Jack not only caught the eye of his academy coach, but also Barnet’s first team manager, John Still, as he earnt himself a professional deal.

John Still quoted, “He has done ever so well in the youth team games that I have seen, has done well in training and had a few games with the development side as well. He is well worthy of being given an opportunity. He knows how to put his foot in and he knows how to play.”

Upon his professional deal, Tompkins gained experience on loan at Isthmian League South Central outfit Staines Town in 2019/20. This helped earn a handful of first team appearances for the Bees before being released at the end of the 2020/21 campaign.

Tompkins then went from being a Bee to a Red Kite as he moved to Oxfordshire side Thame United where he featured 34 times in the heart of midfield scoring four goals. His robust, energetic, and fearless displays led Tompkins to be a fan’s favourite through his all-action style of play. This resulted in him being awarded Thames’ supporters’ player of the season at just 20 years of age. His impressive displays led Berkhamsted to capture the signature of the young midfielder for the start of the 22/23 season as a team looking to go one better after narrowly missing out on promotion in the semi-finals vs North Leigh.

Jack quickly showed his versatility as he was moved from midfield to right back to assist the Comrades in becoming defensively sound. This gave the Hertfordshire club a platform to build on as they created a fortress at home with 24 out of 25 games unbeaten in the league and cup. With a strong home record, Berkhamsted and Jack Tompkins completed the league and cup double in the space of three days, becoming the first club from Step 4 to win the Hertfordshire Senior Cup in 130 years. It was as successful season for Tompkins individually as it was the club: he featured in 44 games and scored two goals, earning him the Comrades 22/23 young player of the year award.

After impressing as a triallist in the early pre-season games for the Puritans, Mark Jones has been quick to secure his signature as a player with many individual and collective accolades gained in his short career to date. Furthermore, he fits into Mark Jones’ philosophy as Jack arrives youthful but with a wealth of experience in the non-league pyramid.

WELCOME JACK TOMPKINS!