The value of education alongside a sports career hasn’t been overlooked by Doncaster Belle striker and full time Carnegie Scholar, Carla Cantrell who is currently in her second year of a BA (Hons) in Physical Education.
Carla, who is from Doncaster, is also an England U-23 International and finds that the demands of her studies and sporting life are fully supported by Leeds Met Carnegie. Carla not only receives funding for her scholarship but has an academic mentor that helps provide advice and support when needed.
With training sessions once or twice a day, once a week for the university and twice a week for the Club – the demands on Carla’s time are evident but she is resolute in saying that her hectic schedule doesn’t faze her.
“In general the mix of study and sport is massively busy but thoroughly enjoyable. The fact I’m able to gain my education whilst playing football is a brilliant opportunity and one that more athletes should be aware of.”
“Women’s football isn’t as high profile as men’s so I’m well aware I won’t be able to make it my full time career – this means gaining an education is extremely important in enabling me to further my employment options.”
“It’s also something I feel should be of great importance to all athletes not least in giving them longevity either inside or outside the general sporting industry.”
