Introduction:
The Centre opened in September 2001 and has now become an integral part of the Women’s International Talent Development Programme.
The programme is a partnership between the Football Association and “Loughborough Sport” and provides a unique opportunity for all those involved.
Although based at Loughborough University, the academic side of the PDC scholarship programme is provided by three main partners, Loughborough University, Loughborough College and Burleigh Sixth Form College (U18s). All food, accommodation, education and training costs are met by The FA
Loughborough University is one of the top 10 Universities in the country and is generally regarded as the best University nationally, in terms of its sports provision and support of elite athletes. The entry requirements are high, and selection for places is competitive.
Loughborough College is linked to the University and offers a wide range of courses at a variety of levels. The foundation degree at the college has proved a popular choice with previous scholars. Burleigh Sixth Form College is a local Specialist Sports College and provides a wide variety of subjects at AS and A Level.
Recruitment
Since its inception in 2001, the recruitment procedure for selection at the PDC has evolved and developed alongside the programme itself.
Following collaboration with key International staff players are targeted, based on the potential they have demonstrated, for selection at the National Academy. The target list of players is by no means exclusive nor does it guarantee selection should they choose to apply. We recognise that many players may not wish to apply for a variety of reasons.
Loughborough University is one of the top 10 Universities in the country and is generally regarded as the best University nationally, in terms of its sports provision and support of elite athletes.
The entry requirements are high, and selection for places is competitive. Loughborough College is linked to the University and offers a wide range of courses at a variety of levels. The foundation degree at the college has proved a popular choice with previous scholars.
The scholarship programme at the PDC is reviewed annually. Although we recognise that noticeable developments in all areas are unlikely to occur in just 10 months, we review player selection in terms of commitment, attitude, and long term potential on a yearly basis.
Where possible and appropriate we invest in players over a number of years with guidance and collaboration from Hope Powell (National Coach) and other key staff.
The Scholarship
In short, each player receives a scholarship from the Football Association. Players are generally aged between 16 and 21 and live on campus as a full-time student athlete. They are able to pursue a wide range of courses in the 3 different academic institutions, as well as train on a daily basis.
In September 2005 The Centre expanded its standard provision and now works on different levels. This included the introduction of an Elite Scholarship programme. The aims of Elite Scholarship are as follows:
- To manage the transition of senior players leaving the Centre
- To provide an programme of CPD for senior players combined with ongoing training needs
- Ultimately capacity building senior players to develop within the game (outside of playing).
Aim:
‘To identify, select and develop the best female players, covering a variety of age ranges, equipped to play in key positions at International level, and become ‘World Class’ performers’
Mission:
We have to ensure that those selected are given the best opportunity to flourish, and thereby work towards their full potential in football, education and their own personal development
Philosophy and values:
We will endeavour to develop a pressured, yet safe environment in order to stimulate and challenge players to new levels of sporting and personal achievement.
Players Currently there:
Siobhan Chamberlain, Corinne Yortson, Katie Holtham, Michelle Evans, Bonnie Horwood, Karen Carney, Danii Bird, Jess Clarke
2006-07 intake:
Gemma Davison, Jill Scott, Kylie Davies, Stephanie Houghton, Carly Telford, Sian Larkin, Jo Potter, Danielle Hill, Natasha Dowie, Natasha Hughes, Jayne Eadie, Faye McCoy, Sophie Bradley