Black Isle girl’s ‘lifelong dream’ scholarship with mentoring from football hero
A BLACK Isle girl has “achieved her lifelong dream” with a prestigious football scholarship, that will see her be mentored by her “all-time favourite footballer”.
Fortrose Academy pupil, Freya Hall (S6), has been selected as the winning recipient of the Lucy Bronze Scholarship, which will see her granted a fully-funded place at one of the UK’s top football boarding schools — covering tuition, accommodation and meals. Most excitingly, she will receive personal mentoring from England Lioness and Champions League winner Lucy Bronze MBE — Freya’s “all-time favourite football icon”.
Freya was selected from thousands of applicants and invited to a trial at Chelsea Football Club. The number was narrowed down to only three final places, before Freya was ultimately named as the overall winner.
Fortrose Academy said: “We are beyond proud of the incredible progress Freya has made. Her dedication, resilience and passion for football have led her to this life-changing opportunity — and we can’t wait to see what the future holds! A bittersweet goodbye, and a truly proud moment.”
Youth development officer at Fortrose Academy, Wanda Mackay commented: “I am delighted for our local superstar, Freya Hall. It is a testament to her hard work, commitment, resilience, determination and being an all-round caring young person.
“Freya put on an outstanding performance at the trials, as told to her by her all time favourite football icon, Lucy Bronze. From a young age, Freya has been at her best when she has a football at her feet.
“On a sad note, we will all be sad to lose Freya, but we know this is her lifelong dream. Freya tells me she is super excited to get started and very grateful to receive such a unique and amazing opportunity. What a wee legend, you go girl.”
