A University of Worcester graduate has led the Lionesses to a World Cup.
Harry Smith, a former University of Worcester student who studied sports coaching science, will guide the England Women’s Amputee Football Team in Colombia at the sport’s first-ever World Cup from Monday 4 to Sunday, November 10.
Smith has been involved in amputee football for five years and has been the Lionesses’ head coach for a few months.
Read more: Worcester City Women raise hundreds with charity tournament
The team’s first match is against Peru.
Smith said: “We’re a very new team.
“We’ve been together for less than a year and we’re already going out to a World Cup, so this is a daunting task for us but I’m very proud of them.”
He added: “A lot of the players never thought they’d be able to play football for England, so going to a World Cup means we’ll be embracing every opportunity.
“Whatever happens, we’re coming home with memories.”
To fund their trip, the team had to raise £50,000, and managed to raise half before appearing on BBC Breakfast.
The TV appearance helped them raise the remaining amount in a single day.
Smith said: “I was amazed by how quick the response to that television appearance was.
“It’s been incredibly hard work for the whole team to get us to this point.”
Former England and Chelsea captain, John Terry, was among those who contributed to their fundraising campaign.
Smith said: “John’s been incredible.
“He picked up the story and helped share it, and the support he has given the girls has been fantastic as well.
“He sponsored us with some kit, and he has given financial support as well.”
Alongside his work with the team, Smith also works for the Warriors Foundation and has previously worked with the Albion Foundation and in schools for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities.
He said: “What I love most about this job is being part of the family.
“There’s a togetherness we have because the players come from all walks of life, and they’re unfazed by their past and focused purely on the present.
“It’s very special to be a part of this team, and to watch these individuals doing something they never thought they’d do.”
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