Destined for Greatness: Taya’s Journey to becoming a Lioness.

Taya like most began her footballing journey out of pure enjoyment but it soon became evident that she was destined for higher heights.

As her journey continued to progress, as did her ability, commitment, and desire. Consequently, Plymouth Argyle realised her potential and referred her to the Talent Inclusion Programme to ensure she fulfilled it. As a result of her ability, she had shown enough to the scouts to be monitored for a number of seasons to be assessed and continue to develop.

Delivered in partnership with The FA, the Talent Inclusion Programme ensures that through the existing community activities delivered by 53 EFL Club Community Organisations (CCOs), female participants can be identified and referred to the FA England Women’s Talent Pathway.  The EFL Trust network works in some of the most deprived communities in England.  Recognising that social class, ethnicity and demographics should not be a barrier to success the programme creates a pathway from community to full England honours. Each Club through its community organisations develops their own programme plan based on their expertise of the local area, taking into consideration known barriers faced by young girls.

Like many young footballers the news she had hoped for eventually came when she received an invite to attend an England training camp. She would be surrounded by the best players in her age group, coached by some of the best coaches in the country and experience what it is like to have the honour of representing your country.

She said: “Being called up to England U16’s has been a huge highlight of my footballing journey for me so far. Getting the news, I had been chosen to attend the camp was a shock for me, I was delighted and very emotional when I was told that I had been called up to attend the camp. All my family were thrilled and so proud of me.’

At 11 years old, she was playing on the playground with the boys and just a year later she had trialled and signed for Plymouth Argyle. Between the fun of the playground and the excitement of the next level at Plymouth Argyle she joined local grassroots team, Signal box Frankfort. Her love for the game was ever growing, playing with friends, training during the week, and looking forward to gameday on Saturday.

At a summer tournament with her team, was when Taya’s football trajectory changed, as she was asked to attend the trials for her current side Plymouth Argyle.

Ryan Perks, Plymouth Argyle Women’s Team Manager comments: “’Taya is another hugely talented player with have at this football club. Taya is a fantastic girl both on and off the pitch and works tirelessly to improve her game.”

To find out more about the Talent Inclusion Programme visit: https://www.efltrust.com/talent-inclusion.