First Team Other News 2014-2015
Derby County Ladies FC Lilleshall Report
Brett Burnton | Derby County Ladies Football Club | August 2014
Pre Season 2014/15
The ladies stepped up their pre season preparations with a recent training weekend at Lilleshall National Sport Centre. Such historic surroundings were the perfect setting for the new look squad and coaching team to get to know each other on and off the pitch. The old home the National Football School where England internationals such as Michael Owen and Sol Campbell learned their trade as youngsters is still an inspirational place, which oozes character and excellence. The weekend comprised of tactical pitch based sessions, performance analysis, target setting, a friendly match and the all important recovery sessions. On arrival on Saturday lunchtime the players meant in Queens hall bar and were eager to find out their roomies for the weekend. Pairing current players with new ones they all headed off to find their rooms in Kent Hall, except for young defender Megan Clarkson who headed straight to A&E accompanied by Assistant Manager and Senior Coach Jenny 'Bart' Simpson and Gemma after falling on her shoulder in a futsal session with the Centre of Excellence group. Over the weekend the players and staff put in a monumental effort to make sure every session added value to the team for the coming season. The weekend culminated in a friendly match with local Walsall based side FC Reedswood. The players embraced and applied the new ideas on the pitch and put in an excellent performance with plenty of goals to ensure everyone left smiling. The new season kicks off on Sunday 24th August with the ladies travelling to Wolverhampton Wanderers for a 2pm ko. The following week the team begin their assault on the league cup at home to FAWPL Northern Division One team Chester-Le-Street at Borrowash Victoria. Their first league home game is against local rivals Nottingham Forest on 7th September.
Lilleshall – The players’ view… Aimee Perry known to her teammates as Pez joined the club this summer after a year out of playing. Her previous clubs include Loughborough Foxes and Loughborough Students. She is an intelligent midfielder with an eye for a defence splitting pass! When I started pre-season training with Derby I didn’t expect that 2 months down the line I would feel like a fully fledged member of the team and have a new ‘family’. However, this is exactly what has happened and I am thoroughly enjoying pre-season with the new relatives I have acquired. Only a week ago I returned from a training weekend at the infamous Lilleshall, which has accommodated a number of top athletes. The training camp fully exceeded my expectations and I can honestly say that this was purely down to the group of people I was surrounded by. The coaching staff were fully prepared to deliver a range of engaging sessions where we were able to mould ourselves as a team and understand what was expected of us, as well as try new things out and play with freedom. I felt truly privileged in having the opportunity to attend. We also had ample recovery sessions over the weekend, which was effective; I didn’t feel like I would usually do on a Monday morning at work! I couldn’t write about my new family without giving a specific mention to the players… they have all welcomed us newbie’s with open arms and today it feels like I have been with the club for year’s not months. The training weekend was a big part of this as we were able to spend time getting to know everyone and it was particularly refreshing that everyone in the team got along as one unit. Our resilience and determination was demonstrated in the friendly we played at the end of the camp where we were able to put what we had been working on into practice and played some top football to win the game. I feel confident that I have made an excellent decision in choosing to play for Derby... and I am looking forward to next season’s training camp already… Emily Jeffery more commonly known as Jeffo was presented with an award at presentation evening for reaching 250 appearances for the club and is our longest serving player having joined as a 12 year old. She is a key member of the defence and has just taken over the number 5 shirt from Lorna Abbey after her centre back partner retired over the summer. Fresh back from a weekend away at Lilleshall was just what we needed for a squad that is still new and gelling together. It was a great opportunity for everyone young, old and new to get to know each other in an environment that we all love doing: playing football. Being a senior player that has been at the club since I was 12 years old it was nice to see to the young and new players come straight in to the mix of things, expressing themselves and not being afraid to play football with freedom. Getting to know our new Coaches/Manager, Jen, Gem and James a little better was another plus to the weekend; with lots of football sessions being put on and also 'recovery sessions' that were new to most of us. These are just some of the stuff that the new coaches are adding to this season. Not only that, the new players got to know Bart, who we all love and not so long ago was still playing in the senior squad!! As always there was lots of banter, which is definitely something that will stick around and will get us through the season. I'm excited for the new season and I feel very proud and privileged to be still part of the new development of the senior squad.
Pre Season 2014/15
The ladies stepped up their pre season preparations with a recent training weekend at Lilleshall National Sport Centre. Such historic surroundings were the perfect setting for the new look squad and coaching team to get to know each other on and off the pitch. The old home the National Football School where England internationals such as Michael Owen and Sol Campbell learned their trade as youngsters is still an inspirational place, which oozes character and excellence. The weekend comprised of tactical pitch based sessions, performance analysis, target setting, a friendly match and the all important recovery sessions. On arrival on Saturday lunchtime the players meant in Queens hall bar and were eager to find out their roomies for the weekend. Pairing current players with new ones they all headed off to find their rooms in Kent Hall, except for young defender Megan Clarkson who headed straight to A&E accompanied by Assistant Manager and Senior Coach Jenny 'Bart' Simpson and Gemma after falling on her shoulder in a futsal session with the Centre of Excellence group. Over the weekend the players and staff put in a monumental effort to make sure every session added value to the team for the coming season. The weekend culminated in a friendly match with local Walsall based side FC Reedswood. The players embraced and applied the new ideas on the pitch and put in an excellent performance with plenty of goals to ensure everyone left smiling. The new season kicks off on Sunday 24th August with the ladies travelling to Wolverhampton Wanderers for a 2pm ko. The following week the team begin their assault on the league cup at home to FAWPL Northern Division One team Chester-Le-Street at Borrowash Victoria. Their first league home game is against local rivals Nottingham Forest on 7th September.
Lilleshall – The players’ view… Aimee Perry known to her teammates as Pez joined the club this summer after a year out of playing. Her previous clubs include Loughborough Foxes and Loughborough Students. She is an intelligent midfielder with an eye for a defence splitting pass! When I started pre-season training with Derby I didn’t expect that 2 months down the line I would feel like a fully fledged member of the team and have a new ‘family’. However, this is exactly what has happened and I am thoroughly enjoying pre-season with the new relatives I have acquired. Only a week ago I returned from a training weekend at the infamous Lilleshall, which has accommodated a number of top athletes. The training camp fully exceeded my expectations and I can honestly say that this was purely down to the group of people I was surrounded by. The coaching staff were fully prepared to deliver a range of engaging sessions where we were able to mould ourselves as a team and understand what was expected of us, as well as try new things out and play with freedom. I felt truly privileged in having the opportunity to attend. We also had ample recovery sessions over the weekend, which was effective; I didn’t feel like I would usually do on a Monday morning at work! I couldn’t write about my new family without giving a specific mention to the players… they have all welcomed us newbie’s with open arms and today it feels like I have been with the club for year’s not months. The training weekend was a big part of this as we were able to spend time getting to know everyone and it was particularly refreshing that everyone in the team got along as one unit. Our resilience and determination was demonstrated in the friendly we played at the end of the camp where we were able to put what we had been working on into practice and played some top football to win the game. I feel confident that I have made an excellent decision in choosing to play for Derby... and I am looking forward to next season’s training camp already… Emily Jeffery more commonly known as Jeffo was presented with an award at presentation evening for reaching 250 appearances for the club and is our longest serving player having joined as a 12 year old. She is a key member of the defence and has just taken over the number 5 shirt from Lorna Abbey after her centre back partner retired over the summer. Fresh back from a weekend away at Lilleshall was just what we needed for a squad that is still new and gelling together. It was a great opportunity for everyone young, old and new to get to know each other in an environment that we all love doing: playing football. Being a senior player that has been at the club since I was 12 years old it was nice to see to the young and new players come straight in to the mix of things, expressing themselves and not being afraid to play football with freedom. Getting to know our new Coaches/Manager, Jen, Gem and James a little better was another plus to the weekend; with lots of football sessions being put on and also 'recovery sessions' that were new to most of us. These are just some of the stuff that the new coaches are adding to this season. Not only that, the new players got to know Bart, who we all love and not so long ago was still playing in the senior squad!! As always there was lots of banter, which is definitely something that will stick around and will get us through the season. I'm excited for the new season and I feel very proud and privileged to be still part of the new development of the senior squad.
Derby County Ladies appoint Junior Section General Manager
Brett Burnton | Derby County Ladies Football Club | August 2014
Derby County's exciting development continues with the appointment of Dave Cholerton to the new role of Junior Section General Manager. Cholerton has been actively involved with the club as both a coach, referee and supporter since the beginning of the junior section in 2000 and is seen by Chief Executive, Duncan Gibb as the latest piece to the jigsaw. "I've long held the view that the club needs an identifiable figurehead for the Junior Section in much the same way that we have one in John Griffiths for the senior group, although I see elements of their remits as being somewhat different. With 65% of our senior players having come through the clubs junior ranks, Derby County continues to be what is termed an organic growth club, in that 'we grow our own'. As such a strong Junior Section is vital to our future success as we strive towards becoming a Women's Super League (WSL) club ." "Dave will not only act as a point of contact for junior section players, parents, coaches and managers, he will also work alongside other club officials in ensuring that the clubs philosophies are embedded at junior level as well as driving forward both support and attendance to the clubs increasingly attractive social calendar. The club worked hard last season to implement a 'one club' feel and Dave will be key in driving this forward as well as assisting myself in continuing to raise the clubs profile at both local and regional level." Given Dave's history to date with the club and his work within the local education sector, I felt that he was the perfect man for the job. Having walked the walk as a coach and superb mentor to our younger players, I think that players, managers and coaches will find it easy to relate to him, whilst in turn he will readily identify with any issues, concerns or thoughts that they may have."
The role commences with immediate effect with Cholerton joining the clubs Executive Committee.
Duncan Gibb - Chief Executive - Derby County Ladies FC
Derby County's exciting development continues with the appointment of Dave Cholerton to the new role of Junior Section General Manager. Cholerton has been actively involved with the club as both a coach, referee and supporter since the beginning of the junior section in 2000 and is seen by Chief Executive, Duncan Gibb as the latest piece to the jigsaw. "I've long held the view that the club needs an identifiable figurehead for the Junior Section in much the same way that we have one in John Griffiths for the senior group, although I see elements of their remits as being somewhat different. With 65% of our senior players having come through the clubs junior ranks, Derby County continues to be what is termed an organic growth club, in that 'we grow our own'. As such a strong Junior Section is vital to our future success as we strive towards becoming a Women's Super League (WSL) club ." "Dave will not only act as a point of contact for junior section players, parents, coaches and managers, he will also work alongside other club officials in ensuring that the clubs philosophies are embedded at junior level as well as driving forward both support and attendance to the clubs increasingly attractive social calendar. The club worked hard last season to implement a 'one club' feel and Dave will be key in driving this forward as well as assisting myself in continuing to raise the clubs profile at both local and regional level." Given Dave's history to date with the club and his work within the local education sector, I felt that he was the perfect man for the job. Having walked the walk as a coach and superb mentor to our younger players, I think that players, managers and coaches will find it easy to relate to him, whilst in turn he will readily identify with any issues, concerns or thoughts that they may have."
The role commences with immediate effect with Cholerton joining the clubs Executive Committee.
Duncan Gibb - Chief Executive - Derby County Ladies FC
Performance Analyst wanted!
Jenny Sugarman | Derby County Ladies Football Club | 20th September 2014
DCLFC are looking to recruit a performance analyst to join the first team staff. Do you have what it takes to join the first team staff in offering elite support to our players?
Derby County Ladies Football Club playing in the FA Women’s Premier League are looking to recruit interns to film and analyse their games.
When do you need to be available?
We play our matches on Sunday afternoon (normally 2pm kick off). Our fixtures run from September through to May.
What will you need?
All camera, tripod and memory cards will be provided. You will need a laptop to develop footage
Time Commitments?
Home matches kick off at 2pm and you will be required to arrive at 1pm to get set up and ready for kick off. In addition to this you will need to work producing the DVD and analysis to be provided by Monday following the game. This should take 2-3 hours.
What will you get?
Experience working in and being involved in an elite football set-up. Experience performing analysis duties
Start Date: October 2014
To apply: Please send a CV and covering letter to [email protected]
For more information please contact First Team Manager, Jenny Sugarman.
DCLFC are looking to recruit a performance analyst to join the first team staff. Do you have what it takes to join the first team staff in offering elite support to our players?
Derby County Ladies Football Club playing in the FA Women’s Premier League are looking to recruit interns to film and analyse their games.
When do you need to be available?
We play our matches on Sunday afternoon (normally 2pm kick off). Our fixtures run from September through to May.
What will you need?
All camera, tripod and memory cards will be provided. You will need a laptop to develop footage
Time Commitments?
Home matches kick off at 2pm and you will be required to arrive at 1pm to get set up and ready for kick off. In addition to this you will need to work producing the DVD and analysis to be provided by Monday following the game. This should take 2-3 hours.
What will you get?
Experience working in and being involved in an elite football set-up. Experience performing analysis duties
Start Date: October 2014
To apply: Please send a CV and covering letter to [email protected]
For more information please contact First Team Manager, Jenny Sugarman.
Reserve match moved to Derby College after break-in at Borrowash Victoria
kganly_DT | Derby Telegraph | 27th September 2014
Derby County Ladies will play their reserve match against Nottingham Forest at Derby College's Mackworth base on Sunday after a break-in at Borrowash Victoria's Anderson Electrical Arena. It is the second time in six months that the ground has been broken into, with raiders smashing a roof to gain entry. Two 40" flat screen televisions were stolen along with the boiler and equipment. Vice-Chairman Ian Anderson said: “We’re gutted, they have basically trashed the place. It makes you want to give up.”
Derby County Ladies will play their reserve match against Nottingham Forest at Derby College's Mackworth base on Sunday after a break-in at Borrowash Victoria's Anderson Electrical Arena. It is the second time in six months that the ground has been broken into, with raiders smashing a roof to gain entry. Two 40" flat screen televisions were stolen along with the boiler and equipment. Vice-Chairman Ian Anderson said: “We’re gutted, they have basically trashed the place. It makes you want to give up.”
Christmas Party: hoping for bigger and better
Brett Burnton | Derby County Ladies Football Club | 28th September 2014
Derby County Ladies FC will be holding their annual Xmas party on Sunday 7th December at the iPRO Stadium between 7pm – Midnight. Following the success of last year’s event that saw an attendance of well over 200, the club is hopeful that this year’s event will be even bigger and better with entertainment provided as well as an appearance from our good friend Rammie.
Derby County Ladies FC will be holding their annual Xmas party on Sunday 7th December at the iPRO Stadium between 7pm – Midnight. Following the success of last year’s event that saw an attendance of well over 200, the club is hopeful that this year’s event will be even bigger and better with entertainment provided as well as an appearance from our good friend Rammie.
Bonfire & Fireworks at Borrowash Victoria AFC - 5th November
Brett Burnton | Derby County Ladies Football Club | 28th September 2014
Fireworks Venue
Borrowash Victoria Ground
Anderson Electrical Arena
Borrowash Road
Spondon
Derby
DE21 7PH
Again this year we are holding our annual Bonfire and Fireworks display, at the ground and would love it if you would join us. As we did last year, the gates will be open at 5.30pm, with the fire being lit at approx 6pm, with the fireworks at 7pm. Please come along and join in the fun. You will find Sparklers, Toffee Apples, Popcorn, BBQ, Kids Lights, Sweets and a full Bar service for the grown-ups, and plenty of pop for the kids. What more could you want on bonfire night?????
TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW FROM BORROWASH POST OFFICE
£1.50 for kids under 13
£4 Adults
£9 Family Ticket (2 adults and 3 kids)
Fireworks Venue
Borrowash Victoria Ground
Anderson Electrical Arena
Borrowash Road
Spondon
Derby
DE21 7PH
Again this year we are holding our annual Bonfire and Fireworks display, at the ground and would love it if you would join us. As we did last year, the gates will be open at 5.30pm, with the fire being lit at approx 6pm, with the fireworks at 7pm. Please come along and join in the fun. You will find Sparklers, Toffee Apples, Popcorn, BBQ, Kids Lights, Sweets and a full Bar service for the grown-ups, and plenty of pop for the kids. What more could you want on bonfire night?????
TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW FROM BORROWASH POST OFFICE
£1.50 for kids under 13
£4 Adults
£9 Family Ticket (2 adults and 3 kids)
Sheila scoops top FA Women's award
Brett Burnton | Derby County Ladies Football Club | November 2014
Club secretary, Sheila Rollinson's 41 years of service to the women’s game was recognised in Madame Tussaud of all places at the FA Women's Awards 2014, held on 14th November. A montage video featuring players, coaches and club personnel broadcast from the Ipro Stadium was played before a packed audience as Sheila climbed the stage to collect the evenings main award: ‘Outstanding Contribution To Women’s Football'. The occasion was witnessed by members of the royal family including the Queen, The Beatles, Albert Einstein, Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley and Lewis Hamilton, albeit in wax form! Sheila will be formally presented to the crowd during Derby County’s forthcoming Carling Cup Quarter Final tie with Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea in recognition of her achievements.
Club secretary, Sheila Rollinson's 41 years of service to the women’s game was recognised in Madame Tussaud of all places at the FA Women's Awards 2014, held on 14th November. A montage video featuring players, coaches and club personnel broadcast from the Ipro Stadium was played before a packed audience as Sheila climbed the stage to collect the evenings main award: ‘Outstanding Contribution To Women’s Football'. The occasion was witnessed by members of the royal family including the Queen, The Beatles, Albert Einstein, Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley and Lewis Hamilton, albeit in wax form! Sheila will be formally presented to the crowd during Derby County’s forthcoming Carling Cup Quarter Final tie with Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea in recognition of her achievements.
EWES RAMS News to hit the streets
Brett Burnton | Derby County Ladies Football Club | November 2014
The first edition of the clubs new magazine ‘Ewe Rams‘ will be hitting the streets in early December. The first edition of the 36 page publication will be free of charge and features interviews with CEO Duncan Gibb, First Team Manager Jenny Sugarman, and Club Captain Samantha Griffiths. Copies will be available via The Merlin and the DCFC Club Shop as well as being issued to players and parents via the usual channels.
The first edition of the clubs new magazine ‘Ewe Rams‘ will be hitting the streets in early December. The first edition of the 36 page publication will be free of charge and features interviews with CEO Duncan Gibb, First Team Manager Jenny Sugarman, and Club Captain Samantha Griffiths. Copies will be available via The Merlin and the DCFC Club Shop as well as being issued to players and parents via the usual channels.
Senior squad to flag bear at Chelsea cup tie
Brett Burnton | Derby County Ladies Football Club | November 2014
The Sky televised Carling Cup quarter final tie between Derby and Chelsea will feature players from the clubs senior squads who have been asked to act as flag bearers as the two sides enter the field of play. “That Derby County asked us to perform this duty is testament to the blossoming relationship that we are developing with the main club“ explained CEO Duncan Gibb. “The club are more than happy for the girls to perform these duties wearing our own kits and the exposure for our club. Partners such as Caralot, Sunset Service & Repair and Designer Contracts is justified reward for their continued support and investment into the club“.
The game takes place on 16th December and is already on course to be a sell out.
The Sky televised Carling Cup quarter final tie between Derby and Chelsea will feature players from the clubs senior squads who have been asked to act as flag bearers as the two sides enter the field of play. “That Derby County asked us to perform this duty is testament to the blossoming relationship that we are developing with the main club“ explained CEO Duncan Gibb. “The club are more than happy for the girls to perform these duties wearing our own kits and the exposure for our club. Partners such as Caralot, Sunset Service & Repair and Designer Contracts is justified reward for their continued support and investment into the club“.
The game takes place on 16th December and is already on course to be a sell out.
Ewe Rams part company with Jenny Sugarman
Brett Burnton | Derby County Ladies Football Club | December 2014
Following a run of 3 months without a victory Derby County Ladies FC mutually parted company with First Team Manager Jenny Sugarman earlier this week, ahead of the weekends crunch local derby with Nottingham Forest. Whilst the decision was not taken lightly it’s one that Chief Executive Duncan Gibb feels was necessary. “Nobody could have worked any harder than Jenny in making this work and she was a popular figure in the changing room, however the whole dynamics of the club have changed over the past year and in keeping with that so have the expectations. It’s no secret that the clubs long term aim is to take that next step and bring Women's Super League football to the city and we have been tirelessly working towards that goal on a number of fronts. As you’d expect progress on the pitch is a key element within that and after last season’s 7th place Premier League finish we sat down with Jen in the summer and agreed to aim for a top four finish, however at the back of our minds we had a fall back position of 6th or better, given that this would still have represented forward progress. We invested considerable financial resources into allowing Jenny and the group to commence pre-season training early and to attend the national centre at Lilleshall, however after an encouraging start to the season injuries certainly didn’t help Jen’s cause and as such she and I sat down at the start of last month and discussed some short term targets. Unfortunately these weren’t achieved and the side has slid from top spot to one place and one point above the relegation zone. As such we sat down and agreed that a clean break was probably best all round. I personally believe that Jenny still has a bright future within the game and the manner in which we went our separate ways was an absolute credit to her. Going forwards we believe that immediate familiarity and fresh impetus with the group is needed and as we have therefore promoted Reserve Team Manager, Ash Abbey and U16’s Manager, Jack White to Interim Joint Managers working alongside long term assistant Jenny Simpson. Both know the club inside out, are familiar with the senior group and have enjoyed superb seasons with their respective sides. As such they come in with a winning mentality and don’t need time that we haven’t really got to get to know the group. As with Jen, they have been given clear expectation targets and if they meet those then they have every chance of securing the role on a more permanent basis when we come to look at that.
Following a run of 3 months without a victory Derby County Ladies FC mutually parted company with First Team Manager Jenny Sugarman earlier this week, ahead of the weekends crunch local derby with Nottingham Forest. Whilst the decision was not taken lightly it’s one that Chief Executive Duncan Gibb feels was necessary. “Nobody could have worked any harder than Jenny in making this work and she was a popular figure in the changing room, however the whole dynamics of the club have changed over the past year and in keeping with that so have the expectations. It’s no secret that the clubs long term aim is to take that next step and bring Women's Super League football to the city and we have been tirelessly working towards that goal on a number of fronts. As you’d expect progress on the pitch is a key element within that and after last season’s 7th place Premier League finish we sat down with Jen in the summer and agreed to aim for a top four finish, however at the back of our minds we had a fall back position of 6th or better, given that this would still have represented forward progress. We invested considerable financial resources into allowing Jenny and the group to commence pre-season training early and to attend the national centre at Lilleshall, however after an encouraging start to the season injuries certainly didn’t help Jen’s cause and as such she and I sat down at the start of last month and discussed some short term targets. Unfortunately these weren’t achieved and the side has slid from top spot to one place and one point above the relegation zone. As such we sat down and agreed that a clean break was probably best all round. I personally believe that Jenny still has a bright future within the game and the manner in which we went our separate ways was an absolute credit to her. Going forwards we believe that immediate familiarity and fresh impetus with the group is needed and as we have therefore promoted Reserve Team Manager, Ash Abbey and U16’s Manager, Jack White to Interim Joint Managers working alongside long term assistant Jenny Simpson. Both know the club inside out, are familiar with the senior group and have enjoyed superb seasons with their respective sides. As such they come in with a winning mentality and don’t need time that we haven’t really got to get to know the group. As with Jen, they have been given clear expectation targets and if they meet those then they have every chance of securing the role on a more permanent basis when we come to look at that.
Ewe Rams secure prestige fixtures with Liverpool & Arsenal
Brett Burnton | Derby County Ladies Football Club | December 2014
As part of their 25th Anniversary celebrations Derby County Ladies FC are proud to announce that reigning WSL champions, Liverpool LFC will be visiting the Anderson Electrical Arena on Wednesday 4th February to take on our first team in a prestige competitive friendly fixture. On Wednesday 25th February 14 times champions and probably the biggest name in women's football, Arsenal LFC will arrive to complete what are seen as two mouth watering games within three weeks. Chief Executive Duncan Gibb feels that the games will prove attractive to differing types of supporter. "On one hand we hope to see a number of schools and junior clubs present with youngsters looking to enjoy the opportunity to see household name players that can hopefully inspire them within their own playing. On the other hand we also hope to see supporters of the male game who may have seen the odd game on TV, who think 'it looked pretty decent on the box, it's a Wednesday night, I've very little on and these players are in my own back yard.... where's my coat!'. Regardless of where the support comes from we hope that spectators come away having enjoyed a favourable experience and a desire to come down to our FA Women's Premier league fixtures.
As part of their 25th Anniversary celebrations Derby County Ladies FC are proud to announce that reigning WSL champions, Liverpool LFC will be visiting the Anderson Electrical Arena on Wednesday 4th February to take on our first team in a prestige competitive friendly fixture. On Wednesday 25th February 14 times champions and probably the biggest name in women's football, Arsenal LFC will arrive to complete what are seen as two mouth watering games within three weeks. Chief Executive Duncan Gibb feels that the games will prove attractive to differing types of supporter. "On one hand we hope to see a number of schools and junior clubs present with youngsters looking to enjoy the opportunity to see household name players that can hopefully inspire them within their own playing. On the other hand we also hope to see supporters of the male game who may have seen the odd game on TV, who think 'it looked pretty decent on the box, it's a Wednesday night, I've very little on and these players are in my own back yard.... where's my coat!'. Regardless of where the support comes from we hope that spectators come away having enjoyed a favourable experience and a desire to come down to our FA Women's Premier league fixtures.
Local champion of women's football recognised by PM
Sheila Rollinson with Maggie Throup (Member of Parliament for Erewash) | 12th June 2015
A trailblazer for women’s football who founded Derby County Ladies Football Club and has dedicated over 35 years to the beautiful game has been named a Point of Light by Prime Minister David Cameron. Draycott resident Sheila Rollinson got involved in grassroots ladies football when she was a teenager and founded the ‘Beacon Wanderers’ when she moved to Derby in 1978. In 1990 Sheila joined with Derby County and the Wanderers became the first Derby County Ladies Football Club. Sheila’s dedication and tireless enthusiasm as well as her ability to partner with others has seen the club grow to seven junior squads and two senior ones. Her inspirational coaching has helped to inspire hundreds of women to keep fit and enjoy sport and meant that generations of women have been able to participate in football, forming lifelong friendships and help make Derby County Ladies Football Clubs one of the most respected clubs in the country. Sheila is the latest recipient of a Point of Light award, which recognises outstanding individual volunteers, people who are making a change in their community and inspiring others. Each day, someone, somewhere in the country is selected to receive the award to celebrate their remarkable achievements.
Prime Minister David Cameron said:
“The very existence of Derby County Ladies Football Club is testament to Sheila’s incredible passion and commitment. From Club Secretary to physiotherapist, from refreshments to match programmes, no task is too big or too small. Sheila is a leading light in grassroots football and for almost four decades she has given generations of women and girls the chance to play football in the Midlands. So as England kick off their campaign in the Women’s World Cup, I am delighted to recognise Sheila’s service by making her the UK’s 260th Point of Light.”
Sheila said:
“While it's a great honour for me personally to receive the award, it is also a reflection on how women's and girl's football has grown since I started. To see the England team out there in Canada with matches screened live is fantastic for our sport. Then at Derby County Ladies we have girls teams from u10s right through to our ladies team in the FA women's Premier league. Amazing progress and it makes the hard work worthwhile.”
Maggie Throup MP, Member of Parliament for Erewash said:
“I am delighted that Sheila’s contribution to sport, but more importantly women’s football, has been recognised by the Prime Minister. Sheila is a worthy recipient of this Point of Light Award and a great role model for girls and women alike.”
Sheila is the 260th winner of the Points of Light award which has been developed in partnership with the hugely successful Points of Light programme in the USA and was first established by President George H. W. Bush. Over 5,000 US Points of Light have been awarded and both President George H. W. Bush and President Barack Obama have publicly supported the partnership with Points of Light UK which honours shining examples of volunteering across the country.
A trailblazer for women’s football who founded Derby County Ladies Football Club and has dedicated over 35 years to the beautiful game has been named a Point of Light by Prime Minister David Cameron. Draycott resident Sheila Rollinson got involved in grassroots ladies football when she was a teenager and founded the ‘Beacon Wanderers’ when she moved to Derby in 1978. In 1990 Sheila joined with Derby County and the Wanderers became the first Derby County Ladies Football Club. Sheila’s dedication and tireless enthusiasm as well as her ability to partner with others has seen the club grow to seven junior squads and two senior ones. Her inspirational coaching has helped to inspire hundreds of women to keep fit and enjoy sport and meant that generations of women have been able to participate in football, forming lifelong friendships and help make Derby County Ladies Football Clubs one of the most respected clubs in the country. Sheila is the latest recipient of a Point of Light award, which recognises outstanding individual volunteers, people who are making a change in their community and inspiring others. Each day, someone, somewhere in the country is selected to receive the award to celebrate their remarkable achievements.
Prime Minister David Cameron said:
“The very existence of Derby County Ladies Football Club is testament to Sheila’s incredible passion and commitment. From Club Secretary to physiotherapist, from refreshments to match programmes, no task is too big or too small. Sheila is a leading light in grassroots football and for almost four decades she has given generations of women and girls the chance to play football in the Midlands. So as England kick off their campaign in the Women’s World Cup, I am delighted to recognise Sheila’s service by making her the UK’s 260th Point of Light.”
Sheila said:
“While it's a great honour for me personally to receive the award, it is also a reflection on how women's and girl's football has grown since I started. To see the England team out there in Canada with matches screened live is fantastic for our sport. Then at Derby County Ladies we have girls teams from u10s right through to our ladies team in the FA women's Premier league. Amazing progress and it makes the hard work worthwhile.”
Maggie Throup MP, Member of Parliament for Erewash said:
“I am delighted that Sheila’s contribution to sport, but more importantly women’s football, has been recognised by the Prime Minister. Sheila is a worthy recipient of this Point of Light Award and a great role model for girls and women alike.”
Sheila is the 260th winner of the Points of Light award which has been developed in partnership with the hugely successful Points of Light programme in the USA and was first established by President George H. W. Bush. Over 5,000 US Points of Light have been awarded and both President George H. W. Bush and President Barack Obama have publicly supported the partnership with Points of Light UK which honours shining examples of volunteering across the country.
Women's football founder
260. Sheila Rollinson (Derby) | June 2015
A trailblazer for women’s football who founded Derby County Ladies Football Club and has dedicated over 35 years to the beautiful game - Sheila's award was presented in the House of Commons by Tracey Crouch MP as England took on France in their opening game of the 2015 Women’s World Cup. Sheila Rollinson, 68, got involved in grassroots ladies football when she was a teenager in Coventry and founded the ‘Beacon Wanderers’ when she moved to Derby in 1978. In 1990 Sheila joined with Derby County and the Wanderers became the first Derby County Ladies Football Club. Sheila’s dedication and tireless enthusiasm as well as her ability to partner with others has seen the club grow to seven junior squads and two senior ones. Her inspirational coaching has helped to inspire hundreds of women to keep fit and enjoy sport and meant that generations of women have been able to participate in football, forming lifelong friendships and help make Derby County Ladies Football Clubs one of the most respected clubs in the country. In the 35 years since she started the club, Sheila has played a central role in the development of women’s football in the Midlands and has held many roles in the Derby league. Today she is still as passionate about making sure everyone has the chance to play football, helping out wherever she can from being welfare officer for all Derby County footballers – from the under-10s to the men’s Championship team – to printing match programmes.
A trailblazer for women’s football who founded Derby County Ladies Football Club and has dedicated over 35 years to the beautiful game - Sheila's award was presented in the House of Commons by Tracey Crouch MP as England took on France in their opening game of the 2015 Women’s World Cup. Sheila Rollinson, 68, got involved in grassroots ladies football when she was a teenager in Coventry and founded the ‘Beacon Wanderers’ when she moved to Derby in 1978. In 1990 Sheila joined with Derby County and the Wanderers became the first Derby County Ladies Football Club. Sheila’s dedication and tireless enthusiasm as well as her ability to partner with others has seen the club grow to seven junior squads and two senior ones. Her inspirational coaching has helped to inspire hundreds of women to keep fit and enjoy sport and meant that generations of women have been able to participate in football, forming lifelong friendships and help make Derby County Ladies Football Clubs one of the most respected clubs in the country. In the 35 years since she started the club, Sheila has played a central role in the development of women’s football in the Midlands and has held many roles in the Derby league. Today she is still as passionate about making sure everyone has the chance to play football, helping out wherever she can from being welfare officer for all Derby County footballers – from the under-10s to the men’s Championship team – to printing match programmes.
Prime Minister David Cameron said:
“The very existence of Derby County Ladies Football Club is testament to Sheila’s incredible passion and commitment. From Club Secretary to physiotherapist, from refreshments to match programmes, no task is too big or too small. Sheila is a leading light in grassroots football and for almost four decades she has given generations of women and girls the chance to play football in the Midlands. “So as England kick off their campaign in the Women’s World Cup, I am delighted to recognise Sheila’s service by making her the UK’s 260th Point of Light.”
Sheila said:
“While it’s a great honour for me personally to receive the award, it is also a reflection on how women’s and girl’s football has grown since I started. To see the England team out there in Canada with matches screened live is fantastic for our sport. Then at Derby County Ladies we have girls teams from u10s right through to our ladies team in the FA women’s Premier league. Amazing progress and it makes the hard work worthwhile.”
Maggie Throup MP, Member of Parliament for Erewash said:
“I am delighted that Sheila’s contribution to sport, but more importantly women’s football, has been recognised by the Prime Minister. Sheila is a worthy recipient of this Point of Light Award and a great role model for girls and women alike.”