Learn more about SSFC Women's and Girls' Pathway

This article was published in The Mariner, South Shields FC's matchday programme, ahead of the men's Enterprise National League North fixture against Radcliffe FC on Tuesday, September 2nd.

As South Shields Women’s First Team kick off their regular season campaign this week, the Women’s Reserve Team will follow suit later this month, and our Women’s Academy Team will begin their season next month. 

This is an ideal time to explore the expanded playing opportunities we now offer to both women and girls.

Over the past 12-18 months, significant efforts have been made to enhance the female pathway, not only for local senior women but also for local and international 16-23-year-olds. 

These efforts have been achieved through our partnerships with Sunderland College and the University of Sunderland.

Through our academic partnerships, we provide a diverse range of educational options, including A-level and BTEC studies, university undergraduate degrees, and masters programmes.

This fully integrated environment includes regular high-level training, focused strength and conditioning programmes, and individual development plans. 

These programs aim to not only improve players’ football capabilities but also provide professional development support beyond the pitch.

The vision and outlook for the Women’s and Girls’ Pathway at the club are incredibly exciting.

Our goal is to continue expanding year on year and building out playing opportunities for young girls aged six to 18 years old.

If you’re interested in being involved as a player, coach, or sponsor, please get in touch. 

We’d love for you to be a part of this exciting and growing environment.

As always, your support as fans is greatly appreciated and well received by our current players, so come on out and show support for all our W&G teams and help us continue to grow the game together.

Sophie Clough (Head of Women’s Football)

sophie.clough@southshieldsfc.co.uk

Image credit: Craig McNair (@ideventphoto)