Worthing United Youth’s girls’ teams have enjoyed a trophy-laden 12 months – and are already looking ahead to more glory next season.
After the 2018/19 league was completed, the Under 12s followed up their first full season of matches by winning the Steyning FC 6-a-side tournament.
In 2019/20 they completed a clean sweep in the Sussex League (West) division before Christmas, winning all of their eight matches (scored 35, conceded 11) and securing promotion to the Sussex-wide Premier Division.
While the Premier Division was of a higher standard, the girls had battled to mid table when the spread of Covid-19 forced the season to be ended early.
Mark Whitlock, the manager of the Girls U13s for season 2020-2021, said: “The girls performed brilliantly last season to win the West division and it would be fair to say they found the step up to the Premier Division a struggle at first but they never stopped trying.
“Their hard work and effort led to some great performances in the Premier Division. They should all be so proud of themselves for what they have achieved.”
The Under 10s did not play in a league in 2018/19 but that didn’t stop them racking up the honours. They won the Worthing Town, Steyning and Henfield tournaments, were runners-up in the Lewes tournament and reached the semi-finals of the Worthing United event.
The following season (2019-2020), the Under 10s were top of their league when it was abruptly ended early in March 2020. They also won the Autumn Trophy and the Bognor Regis 6-a-side tournament in March.
Their overall record was played 25, won 23, lost 2. They had scored 107 goals, with top scorer Maria O’Brien having found the net 34 times. Keeper Fia Skagerlind also kept 17 clean sheets as the girls conceded only 14 times in all competitions.
Pete Brackley, the manager of the Girls U11s for season 2020-2021, said: “This past season has surpassed all my expectations. I am so proud of all of the girls but the way they have worked, developed and been so successful has left me wanting even more next season.”
Meanwhile, the Under 9s continue to grow in confidence, skill – and numbers.
Coach Jason Nicholls said: “I’ve been very impressed by the way the girls have picked up the basics of the game so quickly and improved so much in just a few months.
“It bodes really well for the future of the girls’ section that the next generation is coming on leaps and bounds.”
The girls’ section is continuing to recruit extra players to join its squads for the upcoming season. The Under 13s are looking for girls currently in Years 6 and 7 while the Under 11s need players currently in Years 4 and 5. Girls currently in Years 1, 2 and 3 can join the Under 9s.
For more information about training sessions or joining the club, email girls@wuyfc.co.uk.