Darlington are excited to announce the signing of Sam Hetherington for the 2026/27 season on a one-year deal.

Sam, 20, is a name Darlo fans will remember from his time on loan in the second half of the  24/25 season, where the midfielder would make 16 appearances and score two goals. He started his career at Carlisle United as a youngster in their academy, where he made three first-team appearances in the EFL Trophy and spent time on loan at Workington in the first half of the 24/25 season. 

After a good loan at Darlington, Sam would sign his first professional contract with the Cumbrians at the end of the 24/25 season but would unfortunately not make an appearance for the first team last season. Sam would be invited back to pre-season training with Carlisle and would play 45 minutes against Motherwell in a 3-2 win before signing for the Quakers.

We at the club are thrilled to have you back, Sam, and we can't wait to see you back at Blackwell Meadows!