England captain Leah Williamson hopes the FA’s Discover My Talent programme can unearth stars of the future and increase diversity in the women’s game.
The programme was launched by the FA in August 2021 to widen the pool of players who may be scouted and brought into the England pathway.
Players from all over England from different backgrounds and communities can be referred to the programme and there have already been success stories.
Of the 1000s referrals made, 356 players have been described by the FA as “a real talent of interest” and 75 are now part of a group of players being considered for squad selection for England age-group teams from under-15 to under-17.
“It is important girls know there is a ladder to climb to where they want to go to,” said Williamson, who surprised girls taking part in a Discover My Talent showcase event at Brentford Football Club’s Community Sports Trust on Saturday.
“The easiest way to see yourself achieving your dream is to know how to get there and the Discover My Talent programme will hopefully really help them.
“The talent that would have perhaps previously gone unnoticed in the women’s game, because no one was looking for it, will hopefully be the next step in increasing accessibility and diversity, making sure we are reaching everyone who has talent and not just those who are fortunate enough to get into places to show it.”
The Lionesses’ visit to the session on Saturday was a surprise one as they joined in the event, which involved 100 girls aged between 12 and 15.
The players taking part were aiming to impress The FA’s talent staff and had been nominated across multiple playing environments, including grassroots clubs, schools and community environments, and Emerging Talent Centres.
The FA recently announced changes to the women’s and girls’ player pathway with the introduction of up to 70 Emerging Talent Centres and FA Professional Game Academies.
The changes, announced in February, were designed to unearth the very best talent in England while also making the game more diverse, accessible and inclusive.
“Discover My Talent is an integral part of our work to make our game more diverse, inclusive, accessible and more reflective of wider society,” said Kay Cossington, The FA’s women’s technical director.
“Every player’s journey is uniquely different and our aspiration with this programme is to help address some of the historic challenges many have faced when accessing the game.
“Our ask is simple, if you see a talented young female player in any environment in any part of the country, then refer them and they will be assessed.
“We’re already seeing players from all backgrounds nominated as part of Discover My Talent play a key part in our England development teams.”
To refer a player for assessment as part of the Discover My Talent programme, click here.
