Former Arsenal Player Leads New Girls-Only Programme
- contentbyfreya
- May 6
- 2 min read
Former Arsenal and Ireland International Yvonne Tracy is set to lead our brand-new girls-only football programme – Girls Croft Ballers – launching this May at The New Croft.
Girls Croft Ballers is all about creating a space where girls aged 5–14 can have fun, make friends, and build confidence, all while learning the fundamentals of football in a supportive, pressure-free environment.
Tracy's career is a powerful example of what women can achieve in football. Having spent 14 years at Arsenal and earned 78 caps for Ireland, she’s channelling that experience and energy back into the grassroots game, right here in our community.
Positive role models in sports play a vital role, especially for young girls who are just starting to discover their interests and build confidence. Having someone to look up to who has not only succeeded in the game but also understands their journey can make a huge difference. A role model like Yvonne shows girls what’s possible while also helping them feel seen, supported, and valued.
“It’s so important that young girls have someone they can look up to in football,” says Rhys Shulver, Head of The New Croft Foundation. “Seeing a woman who’s achieved so much in the game, but is also approachable, kind, and passionate about grassroots football, makes a huge difference. Yvonne shows our girls what’s possible – but more importantly, she helps them feel like they belong.”
Yvonne is already a familiar face at the Foundation as one of our lead coaches at Haverhill Football Academy, our post-16 full-time football and education programme. Her passion for developing players at every stage of their journey makes her an invaluable part of our football family.
In a world where many young girls still hesitate to step onto the pitch for the first time, having a female role model like Yvonne makes all the difference. Her sessions are rooted in encouragement, inclusion, and enjoyment, not pressure or competition.
Each week at Girls Croft Ballers will feature fun football games and a new focal point, helping girls grow their skills while enjoying the game at their own pace. Whether they’ve never kicked a ball before or already play for a club, this is a place for them to thrive.
Girls Croft Ballers
Launching Wednesday 7th May 2025! Delivered weekly on Wednesdays 5-6pm (term time only).
For girls aged 5–14
The first 2 sessions are completely FREE!
The New Croft, Haverhill
