Everton Women’s thriving Academy is helping to produce the next generation of talent for the Blues’ senior team – and you can learn more about the Club’s development programme in the video above or here!
Scotland youth international defender Kenzie Weir is one of the players who has come through the ranks with the Toffees, and she joined her dad – and former Everton defender – David to discuss her Academy journey.
David, who made 269 appearances for Everton, explained: “I’ve seen Kenzie grow a lot in terms of her confidence and tactical knowledge.
"Technically, she’s getting those hours on the training field and learning from the good coaches here at Everton Academy.
“I really enjoy watching her play, although it can be quite stressful – I now know how my parents felt when I played! But I’m really proud of her and it’s so exciting for us, as a family, to see Kenzie play for Everton.”
Kenzie added: “All the coaches have been really helpful. We learn a lot in every session but there's also that element of fun, so we get the best of both worlds.
"The tactical side of my game has come on a lot and they’ve given me lots of confidence as well.”
You’ll also hear from emerging Everton talents Aimee Kelly and Lucy Walsh on the “amazing” support they have received on and off the pitch during their time at the Club.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH OUR WOMEN'S ACADEMY VIDEO
Women’s Academy Manager Tommy Walsh, meanwhile, outlines the all-round experience the Club aims to provide for its young players.
“I think developing a philosophy from Under-10s all the way up to Under-20s has been a big achievement for us,” he says. "We want people to watch our teams and identify what an Everton team is.
“We want to teach our young players the game, of course, and we also give them lots of wellbeing and psychology support. We want to instil good life skills as well.”
Walsh also explains how England Under-19 midfielder Grace Clinton’s progress from Academy prospect to important first-team Everton player provides inspiration for the Blues' current crop of youngsters.
“That’s the ultimate for us for us – to see someone come all the way through like Grace,” he added.
“I think she is probably the best young player in the country. The fact she has come through our Academy and represents our club gives us an immense amount of pride.
“For us to give them that inner belief is so important and I think that’s what we do better than anything – we make players believe they can achieve their dreams.”
