3/1 To Win
Derby County Ladies, in partnership with the University of Derby, are delighted to have offered Olivia Fox the first of their recently announced scholarships that will see the talented footballer make the move to the Midlands.
The scholarship scheme, launched in November 2017, is backed by England's record goalscorer Kelly Smith and leading sports presenter Jacqui Oatley and offers the selected players the opportunity to have their fees paid in full for their three-year degree courses.
The Kent-based defensive midfielder is the first to take up the offer to study Football Journalism at the University, whilst representing both Derby County Ladies and the university football team and she believes that the prospect of a dual career is something that all women footballers should consider.
Fox said: “I’m a big advocate for this route for women’s football players. It’s a fantastic opportunity to join a club like Derby County Ladies and a big step forward personally to study academically.
“It’s a route that not many women’s players probably think about enough but it’s a starting point for a career outside of the game, whilst also maintaining the chance to develop as a player. I cannot wait to get started.”
“I’ll be able to focus and balance my studies with football, an important life skill in itself. Hopefully I will be able to offer Derby County Ladies something on the pitch where my versatility to play in defence or midfield, whilst also contributing going forwards, will hopefully stand me in good stead.”
Derby County Ladies CEO Duncan Gibb is equally delighted, with the club and university having got a scholarship off the ground so quickly.
Gibb said: “We knew when we announced the scholarships at the back end of last year that many young footballers had already made their university choices and that it would be the 2019/20 season that would see the scholarships really start to take effect.
"However, to get a player across the line in regards to joining us next season and studying at the university is fantastic for all involved and we can’t wait for her to join us over the summer. With our bid for a place in the newly-formed Women’s Championship under consideration, Olivia couldn’t be joining us at a better time.
“I know that under the tutelage of Pete Lansley and his team on the Football Journalism course, Olivia is going to be in fantastic hands. For her to get a start on the career ladder - that for us at Derby County Ladies is what this is all about.”
For any budding football players/journalists interested in the scholarships for the 2019/20 season, you are invited to express your interest to [email protected], sending your football CV and a short cover letter.
For all Press enquiries please contact Media Manager Andy Moore on 07399 357907 or email [email protected].
