FEATURE: Female Talent Pathway

Derby County Women and the University of Derby give players the chance to stay in education while advancing their football careers.

The Female Talent Pathway is run by the Derby County Community Trust and provides opportunities for talented female footballers from Derby and the surrounding areas.

With 10 teams ranging from Under-9s, through to Under-21s and ultimately feeding into Derby County Women’s First Team.

The Under-18s and Under-21s operate a full-time model where the players are in full-time education with Derby County Community Trust alongside training full-time.

This model was recently introduced to bridge the gap between the academy players and first team and saw 8 players make their first team debuts throughout the 2024/25 season.

Players like Mia Wheeler (left), Marnie Drake (centre), Eve Shepherd and Lily Skeldon have all become part of Sam Griffiths’ First Team squad, playing Tier 3 senior football in the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier Division.

To find out more about the Female Talent Pathway, click here.