The English Universities Women’s squad met up for a training camp in preparation for the British University Games (BUGs) which are being held in Edinburgh this year.

During the two day meeting, held at Warwick University, players benefited from first class coaching, participated in the latest component of the football education programme and finally played in a match against the British Colleges Representative squad.

Despite the main focus being preparation for the British University Games in April, the training camp was another step in the selection process for the World University Games (WUGs) in Belgrade, Serbia in 2009.

"The two year programme provides an opportunity to develop players within the HE sector, with the ultimate goal being to represent GB Universities at the WUGs in 18 months' time," said English Universities Manager Katie Rowson.

The recent match between England Women and Northern Ireland saw the involvement of three players - Lindsay Johnson and Jody Handley for England, Una Harkin for the hosts - who had previously represented English Universities at the BUGs as well as Emma Higgins and Ashley Hutton who are in the current EU system.

"For some players, playing for English Universities can act as a useful introduction to international football and another step in the development of their football career," said Neil Roach, English Universities Head Coach.

George Carney, BUSA Football Development Manager, added: "This partnership demonstrates how we can successfully work together to assist The FA and BUSA football development programmes.

"The standard of players at the training camp was good and their professional approach was a credit to their institutions and the clubs they represent."

It is not only player development that the new programme has focused upon. Coach development has been an integral part of the process, so that younger coaches, including Lindsay Robinson (Women, Girls & Disability Football Development Officer from Durham Sport) and Paul Hennessey (University of Worcester) have had the opportunity to work alongside the vastly experienced Keith Blunt (former Technical Director of the National School at Lilleshall) who has been part of the coaching team.

The English Universities Women’s squad now move on to Edinburgh for the British University Games between 7-10 April.