Brooke Emmerson of the Trust’s Football & Education programme has been selected to represent the National Football Youth Team’s All-Stars squad.
At the age of just 16, Brooke will play in the U21s squad after the conclusion of this season.
Giving her thoughts on being chosen for the final squad, Brooke said: “It was actually a shock. I didn’t think I would be picked, but I was so happy about it and called my dad straight away and told him. He was delighted for me as well.
“I got put forward to trial by my manager and went to trial in December and after they had reviewed the footage, I was one of around 20 players picked out of 50.”
A North and a South squad were selected and the two teams will face each other at the end of the season.
“It’s obviously a bit nerve-wracking, but I’m excited too! I’m confident in myself and think I’ll be able to perform well on the day,” Brooke said.
Three players from Chesterfield FC were nominated by the F&E women team’s manager Adam Guirdham to trial for the final squad that has been selected.
Giving his reaction to Brooke’s call-up, Adam said: “For ourselves, as a club, we aren’t surprised that Brooke made the cut. She has been doing really well this season, not only in the games, but also the stuff that she does away from the pitch.
“She’s always focused on her development. She’ll regularly go to the gym, she puts in the extra effort to improve that we love to see and we’re all just so delighted for her because she has deserved it.”
The Trust’s Football and Education programme is designed for individuals wanting to gain post-16 sports qualifications and play competitive football, alongside studying.
Reflecting on her experience of the programme so far, Brooke said: “It’s really enjoyable! You come in for the morning session and do the education side and then go and train or play in the afternoon.
“There is so much support from the Trust off the pitch, if you are behind with your work, but also on the pitch. It has helped me develop so much as a player.”