Empowering Young Women: Middlesbrough’s New College Football Pathway

Big news for women’s football: Middlesbrough FC is teaming up with Middlesbrough College to open a fresh path for young women hoping to break into the professional game. Kicking off in the 2026/2027 season, this new initiative blends academic or vocational studies with top-level football training.

They’ll welcome up to 20 players into a setup that aims to develop the whole person, not just the athlete. The focus? Growing local talent so these young women can shine both on the pitch and in the classroom.

Empowering Young Women Through Football and Education

This partnership marks a real step forward for women’s football around Teesside. Bringing together intense academic study and professional-grade football training, the program wants to give young women genuine tools to thrive in sports and education.

It’s about more than just kicking a ball—it’s about building confidence, skills, and a bit of grit.

Structured Pathways for Talent Development

UEFA-licensed coaches will guide the Middlesbrough College MFC Women’s U19 team as they compete in the National Youth Football League. That kind of structure matters—a lot—when it comes to nurturing raw talent.

Players get to develop their skills and their fitness in a professional environment. High-quality coaching and disciplined training push everyone to be their best, setting up real chances for a future in the pro game.

Academic and Vocational Excellence

What really stands out here is the double focus: academic and vocational excellence. Sammie Leigh, the college’s sport academy director, points out how the program helps build not just skills, but discipline and confidence too.

Mixing studies with high-level football training means these women aren’t just athletes—they’re well-rounded, ready for whatever comes next, on or off the field.

Combining Studies with Elite Training

Students chase their academic goals while getting top-tier football training. It’s a balancing act, sure, but it pays off in better sporting skills and opens doors for future careers—even outside football.

Middlesbrough College and Middlesbrough FC both step up to help students juggle studies and training. It’s a real support system, not just lip service.

Local Talent Development

Ben Fisher, general manager of Middlesbrough FC Women, talks a lot about keeping and growing local talent. This project is all about giving young women a clear route from grassroots to pro football right here in the region.

By focusing on homegrown players, they’re laying down solid roots for the future of women’s football in Teesside. It’s about time, honestly.

Community Impact

This isn’t just about building better footballers; it’s about lifting up the whole community. Giving young women the chance to chase their football dreams while staying in school sparks real pride and hope around here.

Other regions might want to take notes—this could be a blueprint for supporting young athletes and growing the women’s game.

Application and Selection Process

Getting involved is pretty straightforward. If you’re interested, you can apply through Middlesbrough College.

They’ll hold trials and friendly games in January. The process is set up to find the most dedicated, talented players for the 2026/2027 season.

How to Apply

Want to throw your hat in the ring? Head over to the Middlesbrough College website for details and the application.

Those January trials and friendlies are your shot to show what you’ve got. Nail it, and you could be starting a journey that lifts your football career—and your studies—to the next level.

Conclusion

Middlesbrough FC and Middlesbrough College have teamed up in a way that feels genuinely fresh. They’re giving young women a real shot to thrive in both football and education.