In July, Chris Collins took his U12 York Railway Institute girls’ football side to the National Futsal Finals in Birmingham.  Included in the team was a young goalkeeper, who was only 11 years old, and one of the reasons York Railway Institute reached the finals.

Erin, who played last season for York Railway Institute U11s side, stepped up in the Leeds qualifiers as the regular U12 goalkeeper was unavailable.  Playing futsal for the first time in Leeds, she produced some brilliant saves.

In Birmingham, Katie, the normal U12 goalkeeper was back, but coach Chris decided it was only fair that Erin be given a chance in the finals.  Each keeper played half a game in all of the 3 matches at the finals.  It wasn’t York’s day but again Erin produced some outstanding saves and one particular double save that was extraordinary.

After the Birmingham finals Erin was picked by the coaches as the player of the tournament for York Railway Institute.

When asked about Erin by Pro Coaching Academy, Chris Collins said ‘Erin is a definite talent, her goalkeeping over both tournaments was breath-taking at times. For such a young female goalkeeper, playing in an age group above, she showed exceptional ability and no fear.  If she continues to improve, she will be a player to keep an eye on.’

Pro Coaching Academy says well done Erin!