Loughborough College’s Lucy Parry has spoken about her experience as part of the England Under 19’s team for their recent UEFA Qualifier against Slovakia.
The Young Lionesses won 3-0, and right-back Lucy was delighted to have been called up to represent her nation.
“I was in Tesco with my younger brother when the phone rang with the news,” said Lucy, “I was so happy, I immediately called my parents to let them know. They’re so very proud of me. They’ve supported me all the way.”
Lucy is currently on loan to Edinburgh side Hibernian FC, having played for Liverpool FC since joining their under 9’s team. She was Liverpool’s youngest ever player when she made her debut at the age of 16 years and 150 days old, and signed her first professional contract earlier this year.
While studying at Loughborough and playing in Scotland may make for a hectic schedule for the young footballer, the College’s blended learning programme has allowed Lucy to pursue her football dreams and education.
The flexible approach has allowed her to juggle playing professional football with studying for a Sport and Exercise Science degree. Lucy’s studies have also helped her to understand the mechanics of her game and be a better athlete, and to earn valuable skills which may help her after her playing career draws to a close.
“It’s been really great; my tutors are really supportive and are always quick if I need any help,” she says. “I’ve learned things that are really useful for playing football and will help me outside of playing too.”