#8 Clara Zaffignani

I first started playing football in the garden with my dad, sister, and brother, before joining a training group where I was the only girl. From there, I moved to Stratford Town Girls’ training, where we eventually formed a team, although at first I didn’t want to play in matches. I was signed on for numbers and reassured I didn’t have to play, but I soon decided I wanted to get involved and began playing a year up at U10s and U11s. At U11s, I trialled for Birmingham City, was offered a place, and spent six seasons there up to U16s. Although I wasn’t offered a contract for U21s, I began trialling at various youth and women’s clubs and colleges before deciding to accept my offer from Worcester City, alongside starting at Hartpury College. During my time at Birmingham, I dual signed with my local club Stratford, and also played on Sundays for a boys’ team, Knowle, then Rugby Borough Girls, and in my last season, Solihull Moors Women. I also proudly represented Warwickshire County for three seasons.

Going to be studying a BTEC level 3 extended diploma in sport (football), and I also work with my dad at a restaurant/shop and at my local football club.

Love cooking, travelling, spending time with family, spending time with friends, doing Youth theatre panto, playing/spending time with my dog, running and playing football with my dad and brother.