#8 Clara Zaffignani

Clara’s love for football began in the garden with her dad, sister, and brother, before joining a local training group, where she was the only girl. From there, she moved to Stratford Town Girls, where her group eventually formed a team. Initially hesitant to play in matches, Clara was signed on just to make up numbers but soon found her confidence and began playing a year up at U10s and U11s.

At U11s, Clara trialled for Birmingham City and was offered a place, spending six seasons there up to U16s. Although she wasn’t offered a U21 contract, she continued to pursue opportunities with various youth and women’s clubs and colleges, eventually accepting an offer from Worcester City Women while beginning her studies at Hartpury College.

Alongside her time at Birmingham, Clara dual signed with Stratford Town, and also played Sundays for a boys’ team (Knowle), before joining Rugby Borough Girls and later Solihull Moors Women. She also proudly represented Warwickshire County for three seasons.

Clara is studying for a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport (Football) at Hartpury College. She also works with her dad at their family restaurant and shop, and helps out at her local football club.

Outside of football, Clara enjoys cooking, travelling, running, and spending time with family and friends. She’s also involved in youth theatre pantomimes and loves playing with her dog and, of course, a kickabout with her dad and brother whenever she can.