Trust celebrates landmark year for girls football development programmes
An international call-up has capped a momentous year for MK Dons Community Trust and its football development programmes for young female players.
The football club’s official charity was boosted when Ivy Verleacke-Williams was selected to represent Wales Under 15s at a three-day training camp.
It marks another milestone for the Trust’s player pathway programmes, with two other players who started out in the MK pathway going onto represent England at youth level in recent years.
More than 300 girls were engaged with sessions throughout the season, which are delivered to help participants build confidence and become healthier, more active members of their community.
It comes after the Trust expanded its provision for young female footballers, with weekly sessions now delivered to players of all ages and abilities.
New sessions include the Emerging Talent Centre (ETC) training for girls aged nine to 11, the Girls Performance Centre which started last year for ages 12-14 has expanded, so is now available for those aged 12-15 with 60 new spaces created and a Technical Development Centre launched in partnership with The Cottesloe School in Wing.
Across all programmes, 10 trophies were won with the U16s winning the Aces national competition.
Dene Walsh, Head of Community Football at MK Dons Community Trust, said: “The last year has been quite incredible.
“We've seen success at every level of the pathway, a vast increase in participation numbers, developed new programmes, seen player progression and trophy wins.
“Across the country, people recognise the strength of the MK Dons Community Trust programme and the quality of development we provide.
“That success is built not only through our Girls Pathway, but through the outstanding work of our coaches, who play a vital role in helping every player reach their potential.
“We're excited about what's ahead and are committed to helping even more girls access high-quality football every year.
“Our goal is to continue developing outstanding people and players, while ensuring every girl in Milton Keynes and the surrounding area has the chance to be part of the MK Dons pathway.”
Planning is already underway for the coming season and pre-season has already began as the pathway continues to develop.
Girls who enrol onto the Trust’s post-16 education programme – which facilitates full-time training and work towards a sports industry recognised qualification – will enter adult league football for the first time.
Every aspect in the pathway is supported to help all girls either play football at the highest level or open up working opportunities.
For more information on the sessions available within the girls pathway - Girls Pathways | MK Dons Community Trust
To express your interest in joining our girls’ programs for the coming season - MK Dons Community Trust Girls Pathway | Shop
