Lilly Morris from Wokingham has joined Reading Football Club’s under-13s academy side.
The 12-year-old, who has been coached by Reading FC legend Dave Kitson, was the only girl in an otherwise all boys Wokingham and Emmbrook under-13s Jaguars team last season.
She has also been selected to represent Berkshire at under-14 level.
“Lilly has been one of the best players I have coached since starting my academy,” said Kitson, who has a son playing for the Lowther Road team.
“She has a fantastic attitude, and I am happy to hear that she has been given the recognition she deserves. I have no doubt that she has a bright future ahead of her.”
Wokingham and Emmbrook under-13 Jaguars coach Alistair McPherson added: “It’s with mixed feelings we say goodbye to Lilly.
“It comes as no surprise Lilly has been given the opportunity to train full time with Reading, with matches on Saturdays.
“This is an amazing outcome, especially as Reading are scaling back on academy football for their ladies teams.
“She was our player of the season, a real maestro in midfield, and she will be heavily missed.
“But that said, we wish her all the best on her march up the pyramid to greatness.”
