Students’ pride at representing English Colleges Football Association

Barnsley College students Ellie Hawcroft and Betty Cheetham have secured a place in the English Colleges Football Association national squad.

Ellie, a midfielder who plays for Sheffield Football Club and Barnsley Sports Academy, has secured a scholarship in America after impressing coaches at a PASS4Soccer showcase, which arranges soccer scholarships in USA universities for players from the UK, Europe and around the world.

Betty, a striker who plays for Barnsley Football Club and Barnsley Sports Academy, will train at St George’s Park, the English Football Association’s National Football Centre and will have the opportunity to gain experience of playing at a higher level by representing the College in nationally recognised competitions.

The students are part of the Barnsley Sports Academy within College and have access to an Elite Sports Performance Bursary to fund equipment and travel.

Ellie, 18, of Monk Bretton, said: “I’m over the moon to have been selected to represent Barnsley College at national level. Barnsley Sports Academy has really helped me improve my football, we train three times a week which works around our classes really well.”

Betty, 16, of Royston, added: “I was shocked and overwhelmed when I found out I would be representing the College, it’s a very special feeling to be selected for English Colleges Football Association. The tutors at the College have been fantastic and have really supported us.”

Luke Forgione, Sports Performance and Athlete Development Coordinator at Barnsley College, added: “It is fantastic to have two students selected for the England Colleges team. This illustrates the calibre of players we have at the College. We are extremely proud of Ellie and Betty, who continually perform at a high level in our Female Football Academy, and have been rewarded for their efforts with the International call up. Playing for your country at any level is a fantastic achievement.”

For more information about Barnsley College call: 01226 216 123, email: [email protected], visit the website at: www.barnsley.ac.uk/sport or come along to our Open Day on Saturday 1 December 11.00am to 2.00pm.