Jack Hinshelwood, a rising star for Brighton & Hove Albion, is carving out his own legacy at the club, inspired by his father Adam and great-uncle Martin, both former players and coaches who have been integral to Brighton's history. The 21-year-old midfielder, who has recently impressed in a more advanced role, aims to build on his four-goal tally from last season, setting a target of 10-plus goals in the upcoming 50-60 game schedule, which includes the club's participation in the Conference League. "If I'm going to play in this higher position, I want to start scoring a few more goals," Hinshelwood stated.
The Hinshelwood family's connection to Brighton runs deep, spanning three generations and witnessing the club's extraordinary revival. Jack's father, Adam, played over 100 games for Brighton between 2002 and 2009, while his great-uncle Martin has held various coaching and managerial positions, and continues to scout for the club. The trio recently gathered at the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery for the opening of a permanent exhibition celebrating the club's history, particularly its resurgence after the closure of the Goldstone Ground in 1997, which led to a period of exile before their return to the city and eventual success in the Premier League.
"The journey has been incredible," Jack remarked, recalling his early introduction to the club at the Withdean athletics complex, where Brighton played home games after returning to the city. His father, Adam, also has vivid memories of the Goldstone dressing rooms and the team's climb back to top-flight football. Adam noted the unique atmosphere at the Withdean, describing it as a ground with a nursery for players' children and a pub located within the stadium.
Martin Hinshelwood, who had his playing career cut short by injury, transitioned into coaching, a path Adam also followed. "My career was similar to Martin's," Adam said, referencing his father's advice for Jack to pursue coaching badges, with Jack currently working towards his UEFA B license. Martin, a former player for rivals Crystal Palace, emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and humility, even for successful players. "You're in a learning curve and it's a massive bonus if you're able to play in different areas of the pitch with the ability and the will to play there," Martin commented on Jack's versatility.
Martin, who occasionally served as Brighton's caretaker manager in the 2000s, shared his father's no-nonsense approach to criticism, which he and Adam have instilled in Jack. "We tell him off if he gets carried away!" Martin quipped. He highlighted Jack's strong awareness on the pitch as a key asset, describing him as an "intelligent footballer." The family philosophy centers on pushing for more, a mindset Jack embraces. "None of us are comfortable with what we've got," Jack said. "Like Dad in his coaching, he's doing really well but we all want more. It never stops."
Brighton's new season is set to commence with a Conference League play-off tie, followed by a Premier League match against Aston Villa. Hinshelwood's developing form suggests he will continue to be a significant presence on the field for Brighton.