Game-Changing Partnership: Middlesbrough College and Middlesbrough FC Create Elite U19s Women’s Football Pathway

Middlesbrough College is kicking off an incredible new era for young women’s football on Teesside by teaming up with Middlesbrough FC to launch the new Middlesbrough College MFC Women’s U19 Football Pathway.

This exciting new partnership with Boro Women provides a clear route into the adult game through its creation of a Pro Game Academy, giving talented young players the ultimate opportunity to shine on the pitch while pursuing full-time post-16 education.

The Pathway will welcome up to 20 elite players, set to join the College in Year 12, who will combine academic or vocational study with elite-level training under UEFA A and B Licensed coaches. Player development is a key focus, offering opportunities for progression from college-level fixtures into representing Middlesbrough FC Women.

Sammie Leigh, the College’s sport academy director, has played a pivotal role in forging the partnership and shaping the programme. As the current England Women’s Blind Team coach, with 18 years’ experience developing female players into the England talent pathway, Sammie brings exceptional expertise and insight to the creation of this development route.

The Middlesbrough College MFC Women’s U19 team will be entered into the National Youth Football League for the 2026/2027 season. Pre-season activity will begin in July and August, ahead of the league season starting in September.

Training will encompass technical and tactical work, strength and conditioning, performance analysis, physiotherapy support and match play, giving students a professional-standard environment in which to develop.

The Pathway is designed to provide a robust route into adult and professional women’s football, while building on the College’s existing record of success and commitment to nurturing female sporting talent in the region.

Dan Wilson, football coach for Middlesbrough College’s Women’s Football Academy, said:

“The Middlesbrough College MFC Women’s Football Pathway gives our players a professional environment to develop their skills and fitness, while also supporting their academic progress.

“We’re committed to helping our players reach their full potential. Our partnership with Middlesbrough FC ensures that talented young women in Teesside have a clear pathway to succeed both on the pitch and in the classroom.”

The Middlesbrough College MFC Women’s Football Pathway is TASS Dual Career Accredited, a national recognition that demonstrates the College’s ability to develop sporting talent while ensuring players receive the maximum support needed to succeed academically.

Ben Fisher, general manager of Middlesbrough FC Women, added:

“This partnership demonstrates Middlesbrough FC Women’s commitment to retaining and developing local talent to strengthen women’s football across the region.

“Working with Middlesbrough College allows us to offer the coaching, facilities and support structures that will help these players progress into careers in football.”  

This represents a major step for women’s football in the region, combining academic achievement with elite sport to give aspiring players the best possible foundation for success.