Recently named a higher education hero by British universities & colleges sport for going above and beyond for her contribution to women’s football for the university of hull, sports rehabilitation graduate Amber Amey is leading the charge for getting women and girls involved in football across the world.
When she started out at the University of Hull, Amber Amey didn’t know what opportunities awaited her. Now, having achieved a first class degree in Sports Rehabilitation, she’s already worked with Doncaster Rovers and Hull FC. This summer she’s been on a three-week tour with the Archbishop Sentamu Academy Rugby League scholars, after which she flew to Ghana for a three-week stint coaching football to children from different communities.
“From the start of my studies, I knew my career was in sport rehabilitation, but I didn’t know just how many opportunities can come from applying yourself at university life,” says Amber. “Studying at Hull has provided me with opportunities to work with so many different people and organisations, and through this I’ve been able to continuously build connections.”
Facilitated by the University’s Football Leadership Programme, Amber has been working with the University’s Sport Development Team to develop female participation in football for all ages. She has also been supporting the transition of female players from recreational programmes into the women’s football team. Further still, she has led a community outreach programme to support girls’ football in schools, creating a pathway for girls to take part in the SSE Wildcats sessions in Hull. These sessions – a country-wide FA initiative sponsored by SSE – provide girls with regular opportunities to play football in a fun and engaging environment after school and at weekends.
“I’m proud of making the most of these opportunities,” says Amber. “It’s easy to come through university just doing what’s necessary, but by seeking new experiences I’ve been given amazing opportunities.” Now back from Ghana, Amber is looking ahead to embarking upon a career in the British army where she aspires to put her skills in physiotherapy and leadership to use in helping active servicemen and women around the world.