'Promising' Northumberland teenager completes full…

'Promising' Northumberland teenager completes full season of FA Lioness talent pathway

A "promising" young footballer has completed a full season of the FA Lioness talent pathway - which could see her playing for England in the future.

Lillie Quinlivan Coulson's season in the England U15 National Talent Camps was part of the pathway alongside playing in the U16 girls' squad at Sunderland RTC, as well as training with Sunderland's academy for five years. The 15-year-old from Wylam dedicates at least 20 hours each week to the sport, in both travel and training alongside studying her GCSEs.

Lillie started her football journey in 2013 playing for the Wylam Rockets and at the age of 10, joined the NUFC foundation elite training squad before being selected to play for the Sunderland U11 team. This season, alongside participating in the Sunderland squad, she played in the U16 Northumberland squad and helped the team to win the Northern Counties Cup for the first time.

The sporty student has also played cricket at county level and enjoys hockey at her school, Dame Allan's, in Fenham.

Lillie, who will sit her GCSE exams next summer, said: " I’ve played football since I was six years old and absolutely love it. I train in Sunderland four evenings a week and play a match most weekends, so it is a huge commitment - but my family, friends and school are all supportive."

Lillie Quinlivan Coulson, who is on the England FA Lioness talent pathway (Stride PR)

Her mother, Ann Quinlivan Coulson, said Lille balances her packed football schedule with her academic studies and school life remarkably well. She said: " While her dream is to play football professionally, Lillie is on a dual career pathway and works incredibly hard off the pitch, with plans to perhaps forge a career in business or finance.

" In her heart, Lillie is a true Lioness and has been incredibly dedicated to her football from a young age. It’s great to see such passion for a sport that is really evolving."

Football is now the top participation sport among women in England. In 2020, the FA announced a four-year strategy, titled 'Inspiring Positive Change' that pledges to create a sustainable future for women's and girls' football.

Lillie added: "I fell in love with football so young and am grateful that I’ve been able to play at the level I have. It’s great to see more girls being interested in it and taking part."

Will Scott, Principal of Dame Allan's Schools, said: "Lillie is such a dedicated football player who should be incredibly proud of her achievements on the pitch. When pupils, such as Lillie, show an innate talent in sport, it’s important for us to ensure it’s supported around their academic studies and co-curricular enrichment. Thankfully, Lillie manages that balance exceptionally well herself."

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