Kellie gets the nod to skipper her country

From the Guardian Series, first published Thursday 1st Apr 2004.

KELLIE Leyland is determined not to let her country down after being given the nod to captain Northern Ireland's under 19s women's soccer side.

The 17-year-old former Newton High School pupil has made a huge impression on Northern Ireland's coaching staff since she changed international allegiance 12 months ago.

The Everton Ladies centre back showed an abundance of skill and excellent leadership qualities during Northern Ireland's European Under 19s Championships campaign in Russia and she is delighted to have been given the skipper's armband.

Jenny Leyland, Kellie's mum, said: "It is a massive honour to have been named as captain.

"Kellie is over the moon and I am really proud of her."

Jenny added: "Kellie was in the England camp before she decided to play for Northern Ireland and she has never looked back.

"She played really well in Russia and she has got a place in the women's football academy in Durham."

Archive Home