Higher Education Academic Tutor, Ceara Toal headed to the Deaf Women’s World Cup in Malaysia to represent England in an exciting tournament championing Deaf athletes in professional sport.
With a long career in football, playing at a range of clubs including Coalville Town, Loughborough Foxes, and Leek Town, Ceara has cemented herself as a world class deaf athlete in both football, futsal and cricket.
Having previously represented Team GB at the 2016 Deaf World Cup, Ceara also made history as the second Deaf player in over five years to join Burton Albion Women’s FC as a striker.
Aiming to empower Deaf female footballers and provide accessible opportunities to represent on an international stage, England Deaf Women’s Football (EDWF) have been supported by international football stars including Steven Gerrard and Gary Neville along with entrepreneur Frank Hester OBE.
Speaking about her role in the EDWF squad before the tournament, Ceara shared, “It’s so exciting to have been selected for the England Deaf squad for the Deaf World Cup in Malaysia!”
Ceara’s talent for sport extends off the pitch too, as she has supported blended learners across Loughborough College, including England U19’s defender, Lucy Parry.
After making it through to the semi-finals of the tournament, Team England is now facing Poland in the bronze medal match this week. Looking ahead, EDWF are working towards a place in the European Championships 2024, and Deaflympics 2025 to be held in Japan.
Congratulations on a fantastic tournament, Ceara!