Programme Spotlight: Wildcats
In the first of our monthly programme spotlights we are taking a closer look at Wildcats, the FA-funded programme aimed at engaging girls aged five to 11 in football.
There is a great depth to the Foundation's Women and Girls programmes which offers opportunities for everyone, whatever their ability or goal. Having so many current and former Foundation participants involved at all levels of women's football from the England captain to those taking their first steps in the game demonstrates the strength of our pathway.
Claire Robinson, Sunderland RTC Technical DirectorEarlier this year the Foundation, which has engaged over 500 participants in the past 12 months through its women and girls programmes, was shortlisted for the Best Participation Initiative at the FA Women’s Football Awards. The Foundation has also received a £6,000 Grow the Game grant from Football Foundation and Durham FA which will help encourage more girls to play football through the creation of four new girls only football teams at under 8 and under 10 age groups. The Sunderland and Gateshead RTC is run in partnership between Foundation of Light, Gateshead College and supported by Durham County Football Association and is recognised as one of the best in the county. Players take part in a comprehensive training programme covering all areas and concepts of football, with teams taking part in the RTC Tier 1 North League against elite clubs including Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United. Foundation of Light’s Football Scholarship gives 16-18 year olds the opportunity to represent Sunderland AFC and gain nationally recognised qualifications through an intensive football and education programme. Last season the Ladies Scholars claimed an unprecedented double in their first season, winning the NFYL U19 League and NFYL U19 Cup.
In the first of our monthly programme spotlights we are taking a closer look at Wildcats, the FA-funded programme aimed at engaging girls aged five to 11 in football.
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