Ladies Football Scholars make history in new EFL competition

Foundation of Light's Ladies Football Scholars have made a winning start in the EFL's first competitive football league for females. The young Black Cats first year squad secured all three points in their opening fixture of the inaugural EFL Community & Education Football Alliance (CEFA) with a resounding victory away to Rotherham United, The competition, split into North and South Divisions, includes club community organisations representing Premier League champions Manchester City, Blackburn Rovers, Preston North End and Norwich City among others.

It was a long journey, but we're delighted to come back with a win. The girls played very well and should be very proud of their performance. The EFL's CEFA competition aims to inspire young people to achieve their education goals and develop life skills though football, an ethos which resonates through our Football and Futsal Scholarship programmes.

Steve McClarence, Ladies Scholars Head Coach

Governed professionally by the EFL and sanctioned by The FA with due consideration of requirements laid down by FIFA and UEFA, students participate in an exclusive, high-quality and well organised league against other club representative teams, that focuses on participation rather than ability. To be eligible to feature in the competition, players must be registered on a post 16 education pathway with their Club Community Organisation, or in partnership with a local college or sixth-form. EFL Chief Executive, Shaun Harvey, said: "This competition represents a newly created league for both male and female participants between the ages of 16-19 who have an association with Clubs in the EFL. "EFL Club Trusts have long entered teams into various leagues, and at the Clubs’ request the EFL has now created a meaningful, competitive and professionally organised competition for these purposes. "Whilst it must be stressed the primary focus is not in respect of elite player development, the great incentive to participate in an exclusive league against other EFL teams will aid recruitment for Club Community Organisations." As well as the CEFA, the Ladies Scholars also compete in the NFYL Under 19 Youth League, Durham FA Futsal League and regional competitions representing South Tyneside College.