Beard offers his expertise
Liverpool Ladies manager Matt Beard is taking the opportunity to train young, emerging female football talent during the Women's Super League close season.
Matt, who was recently named FA Manager of the Year at this year's FA Women's Football Awards, offers his expertise and advice at the Liverpool Girls' Centre of Excellence in Whiston.
The centre currently caters for 80 talented footballers from across the north-west region and has teams within the U9, U11, U13, U15 and U17 age categories.
Structured and progressive coaching is provided at the centre alongside an education of leadership, sports psychology, injury management, fitness and nutrition, which offers players further opportunity, knowledge and guidance.
Beard said: "The Liverpool Girls' Centre of Excellence is a great facility which provides fantastic coaching and support for the players. I really enjoy being involved during close season and to see first-hand how the girls are developing as players."
Ashley Hodson, 18, from St Helens progressed through the Liverpool Girls' Centre of Excellence and is now a key player in their development squad.
Ashely said: "I joined the Liverpool Girls' Centre of Excellence four years ago and began training in the U15s team after my school encouraged me to take part in trials.
"Having access to such a high standard of coaching and support really helped me to develop as a player and I know that this probably wouldn't have happened if I had remained playing in a grassroots team.
"I am so grateful that I am able to work with so many fantastic people and my main ambition now is to play for the Liverpool Ladies."
Centre director, Kevin Quigley, added: "The centre is a truly fantastic facility that focuses on player development to ensure more footballing talent makes strides towards the elite women's game."
