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Sophie Baggaley
Sophie Baggaley is 15 years old and lives in Newton with her Mum, Dad and 2 sisters. In August 2010 Sophie gained her first International cap for the England U15's Football team against the Republic of Ireland. She has since represented her country as a Goalkeeper in the U17's team. In September 2011 Sophie was awarded the Bolsover District Junior Sportswoman of the Year award.
Sophie's Latest News (19.04.12)
I have been selected for the U17 England squad for the UEFA Championships which will take place in Belgium from 9th-19th April. Unfortunately, we lost 1-0 to Iceland on 13th, but beat Belgium 1-0 on Sunday. We needed to beat Switzerland yesterday and rely on Belgium beating Iceland to qualify for the Euro finals in Switzerland in the summer. Unfortunately, we lost to Switzerland 1-0.
How did you first get involved in Football
My first involvement in Football was when I was 7, and attended a friends Football Birthday party. From here, I was asked to join my local club, Weston Colts and at first I was a defender. My first experience as a goalkeeper was when the regular goalkeeper was injured, and I volunteered to play in the position. From there onwards, I have always been a goalkeeper. I joined the Derby County Centre of Excellence for Girls when I was 9 years old, where I was scouted by Stuart Rowley. At first I was worried about joining the Centre of Excellence as I didn't want to leave my team mates and let them down. Though they were sad to see me go they were proud that I had the opportunity to join the Centre and continue to improve. In April 2010 when I was 13 years old I became the first player from the Derby County Centre of Excellence for Girls to receive an invite to an England Talent Camp. I spent 4 days with the England U15 squad at a training camp in Berkshire.
Who inspires you?
Any International goalkeeper.
How often do you train and what is a typical session?
I train with the Derby County Centre of Excellence team twice a week. One hour is dedicated to goalkeeper training whilst the other hour and a half is spent with the rest of the team. I have a training programme which has been devised by the Football Association (FA) which I complete in my own time. This incorporates a lot of running! I also attend regional and national camps as well as fitness and screening days on top of normal training at various times throughout the year.
Do you receive any financial support?
I don't receive any financial support from the Derby County Centre of Excellence or the Football Asssociation (FA). I applied to the Podium fund (formerly Derbyshire Talented Athlete Fund) and have been successful this year in receiving a bursary. I'm an Asda Athlete for the Sutton in Ashfield store. I receive some funding from them which goes towards paying for goalkeeper gloves and heart rate monitor. I go to the store twice a year and blog regularly on their website.
How difficult is it to balance football with school work?
In September 2011 I started in Year 10 and have selected PE, History and Geography along with the core subjects I have to take at GCSE. My school (Tibshelf Community) have been supportive. My school are ok with me having time off as long as I catch up on the work. I do sometimes end up taking some school work with me to complete whilst I'm away with the England squad.
What aspects of your game would you like to improve?
I would like to improve my distribution of the ball particularly my goal kicks.
What do your school friends think about you playing for England?
They are proud of me and supportive. I try to just concentrate on my work at school and don't like a fuss been made.
If you could interview any football player in the world who would it be and why?
Probably Robbie Savage, think he would have a lot to say and be a laugh.
Which team do you support?
Arsenal.
Where do you hope to be in 5 years time?
I will be 19 years old. I would like to be still part of the England set up and playing for a senior ladies club. A Women's Super League has been formed this year which includes 8 teams. Unlike the Women's Premier League, the FA has spent £3 million to back Super League teams, allowing them to sign players on semi-professional contracts and hopefully raise standards. This could be an opportunity that may benefit me one day.
Has any individual/coach particularly supported/advised you?
My previous goalkeeping coach at Derby, Tom Williams left last year but he had been my coach for 4 years. My current coach Rob Lund has also offered me a lot of support.
What has been your proudest moment to date?
When I was picked to start in the England U15's squad against Holland back in October 2010.
Key Dates for Sophie
I'm hoping to be selected for:
- More regional and national camps throughout 2012
Last Updated on Tuesday, 24 April 2012 08:56
