Women's Academy update

Ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, we can confirm that our Women’s Under-21s have been reclassified as Under-19s, and a new coaching structure has been put into place.

Women’s Academy Technical Coaching Manager Nick Hardy will assume overall responsibility across the Academy programme, with Sabiha Jamal promoted to the role of Under-19s Head Coach after a year leading the Under-16s.

Matheus Vianna Scapin will assist Sabiha as part of her backroom staff in the Professional Game Academy League and will also lead the Under-16s for the new season, where he will be joined by Stella Calderhead.

Speaking on the coaching set-up, Nick said: “Sabiha had a brilliant year on and off the grass with our Under-16s. Stepping up to lead the Under-19s is a thoroughly deserved opportunity for her and one we’ve thought about a lot with the amount of Under-16s moving into that group. Sab has formed a good relationship with those players as a coach on the pitch, but also as a role model off the pitch. She also made a positive impact with a large portion of the Under-19s squad last season, assisting me during training sessions and games, so we’re really excited to see her work with that group on a permanent basis now.

“Matheus is a coach I have worked with for a number of years. He has been at the Club in a variety of roles so his wealth of experience and knowledge across both the Men’s and Women’s pathways is hugely beneficial. He will bring a great level of commitment, passion and talent for player development. I’m really excited to have him on board as our Under-16s Head Coach as well as part of Sab’s team to support the Under-19s.

“Stella is a young coach who has been at the Club for a while, she has worked through the age groups, including in our ETC, and we’re really pleased to have her on board as part of the wider PGA team.”