Worcester Graduate Leads Lionesses to the World Cup

A University of Worcester graduate is heading off to Colombia as he leads the England Women’s Amputee Football Team in the sport’s first ever World Cup.

Harry Smith, who studied Sports Coaching Science, has been working in amputee football for the last five years but has only been the Lioness’ Head Coach for a couple of months.

The tournament takes place between 4 and 10 November in Barranquilla, Colombia, with England’s first fixture against Peru.

Harry said: “We’re a very new team. We’ve been together for less than a year and we’re already going out to a World Cup, so this is a daunting task for us but I’m very proud of them.”

He added: “A lot of the players never thought they’d be able to play football for England, so going to a World Cup means we’ll be embracing every opportunity. Whatever happens, we’re coming home with memories.”

The team had to crowdfund to get the £50,000 they needed to compete at Colombia; they were halfway there before an appearance on BBC Breakfast television led to them raising the other half in a single day.

“I was amazed by how quick the response to that television appearance was,” said Harry. “It’s been incredibly hard work for the whole team to get us to this point.”

The former England and Chelsea Captain John Terry was among those who contributed to the campaign.

Harry said: “John’s been incredible. He picked up the story and helped share it, and the support he has given the girls has been fantastic as well. He sponsored us with some kit, and he has given financial support as well.”

He added: “The big picture is that we want all of our programmes to be supported. From the men’s and women’s to the junior programmes because they’re all integral to each other and we want to continue to offer opportunities for people to thrive in the sport we love.”

Alongside his work with the England Women’s Amputee Football team, Harry also works for the Warriors Foundation and has previously worked with the Albion Foundation and in schools for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.

He said: “What I love most about this job is being part of the family. There’s a togetherness we have because the players come from all walks of life, and they’re unfazed by their past and focussed purely on the present.”

He added: “It’s very special to be a part of this team, and to watch these individuals doing something they never thought they’d do.”

For information on courses at University of Worcester visit www.worcester.ac.uk or for application enquiries, telephone 01905 855111 or email admissions@worc.ac.uk