Sunderland AFC Women made a winning start to their League Cup campaign with nine former Foundation of Light Girls Development Pathway players featuring in the matchday squad.
The Lasses ran out 2-1 winners away to Sheffield United thanks to goals from former Regional Talent Club (now Emerging Talent Centre) players Katy Watson and Emily Cassap.
Sheffield United's goalscorer, Maria Farrugia, also came through Foundation of Light's pathway as a women's scholar, before earning her first senior contract with Sunderland AFC.
Sunderland has long been a hotbed of women's football, and the Foundation's Female Football Pathway has previously produced England internationals including Steph Houghton, Jill Scott, and Lucy Bronze.
With nine Female Football Pathway players among the Sunderland AFC Women squad, seven of which were with the Foundation from before the age of 16, there are positive signs that Sunderland will continue to play an important role in English women's football.
Following her goal against Sheffield United, Emily Cassap received news of her World Cup call up for England U17.
The U17 Women's World Cup starts on Wednesday 16 October and there will be many on Wearside keeping an eye on Emily's progress in the Dominican Republic.
Foundation of Light is encouraging more girls across Sunderland and the North East to get involved in sport this June through a packed month of football, activity and participation opportunities as part of Together Through Sport.
Foundation of Light’s 2026 Harrison Challenge winners have been crowned following the final presentations at the Beacon of Light.
One lucky winner will be chosen randomly to earn a free opportunity to follow in the footsteps of their Black Cats heroes and play at the Stadium of Light.