Grimsby Town Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of defender Joe Foulkes on a free transfer.

The 22-year-old right-back has signed a one-year contract with the Club, with the option to extend his stay by a further year.

Foulkes arrives at Blundell Park following a standout campaign with Kidderminster Harriers, helping the Worcestershire club secure promotion to the National League through the National League North Play-Offs.

A product of Walsall’s academy, Foulkes progressed through the ranks with the Saddlers before signing his first professional contract in 2021. He gained valuable senior experience during two loan spells with Kidderminster Harriers, where he quickly established himself as a key member of the side and was named the club’s Young Player of the Year following the 2022/23 season.

His performances earned him an opportunity in Walsall’s first team, making his EFL debut during the 2023/24 campaign and featuring regularly in League Two before returning to Kidderminster on a permanent basis in the summer of 2024.

Since rejoining the Harriers, Foulkes continued his development and played a pivotal role in the club’s successful promotion-winning campaign last season. His performances were recognised with selection in the National League North Team of the Season, underlining his status as one of the division’s standout defenders.

Still only 22, Foulkes arrives at Blundell Park with more than 100 senior appearances already to his name, adding further quality, energy and experience to David Artell’s squad.

Head Coach David Artell said: “Joe has had a brilliant season with Kidderminster, resulting in promotion. We know in that league you can pick up gems, as we did with Reece this time last year. He will provide brilliant competition for Harvey, and while he’s got a battle on his hands to get into the team, at the same time from what we’ve seen he’s extremely brave on the ball.

In his last few games, he had a metal plate in his cheekbone. So we know he’s brave in all aspects of his game, and he should provide some real competition in that position.”

After completing his move, Foulkes added: “I’m delighted to be here. Grimsby Town is a massive football club and as soon as the opportunity came up, it was one I was really excited about.

“When I looked at the progress the Club has made over the last couple of years and spoke to the manager, I felt it was the perfect place for me to continue developing my game. There’s a clear direction here and it’s something I wanted to be a part of.

“I learned a lot during my time at Kidderminster. Last season was a really positive one for me personally and helping the team achieve promotion was a great experience. I feel like I’ve matured a lot as both a player and a person, and I’m ready for the challenge of stepping back into the Football League.

“I’d describe myself as a player who likes to get on the ball, make things happen and bring energy to the team. I’ll always work hard and do everything I can to help the group succeed.

“I’ve heard a lot about the supporters and the atmosphere at Blundell Park. My message to them is simple – I’ll give absolutely everything every time I pull on the shirt and hopefully we can achieve something special together this season.”

Everyone at Grimsby Town Football Club would like to welcome Joe to the Mariners and wishes him every success during his time at Blundell Park.

UTM