TOP scoring forward Jessica Johnson has achieved another major goal after being selected to play for one of the North’s top football teams.
The 14-year-old student at The Wensleydale School & Sixth Form, Leyburn, has joined the U15 squad of Leeds Ladies.
Jessica, of Bainbridge, Wensleydale, will now train and play for the ladies’ side, which is expected to take advantage of her goal scoring prowess.
“I love playing up front,” she said. “I was top scorer for Bedale Bluebirds and during a recent 6-2 victory over Ilkley, I scored five of the goals helping us win the Harrogate and District League.”
Jessica began playing football at primary school and father Darren, who runs Mill Race Tea Shop at Aysgarth, has coached her, helping develop her skills.
“I went for trials for Leeds at Batley and didn’t feel I played that well,” she said. “But the scout said he had seen me play before and knew I could play better. I was thrilled when they rang to tell me and my dad is really proud.”
She hope to follow in the footsteps of former Wensleydale School & Sixth Form student Abbi Holmes, who plays for Sunderland.
“I would love to play football for as long as I can, perhaps even for England, as the women’s game is going from strength to strength,” she said.
Head teacher Julia Polley added: “Jessica’s selection is a tremendous achievement and certainly one to be proud of, both for herself and the whole school.”