Erin Cuthbert

Erin Cuthbert; footballer, Scotland internationalist and role model. Erin’s early dream of having a career in football was something very special to her. Pursuing her passion proved itself to be challenging as a young girl. Her opportunities were limited, and her aspirations weren’t always supported, but her determination only grew stronger. Football was a part of who she was, and she wanted to make sure it was going to be a part of her future.

Erin grew up surrounded by a strong love for the sport. She would spend nights sat in front of the television watching cup finals and cold winter days with a blue scarf wrapped around her neck watching her team play on the south side of Glasgow. In primary one, she joined her first team after begging her dad to take her to try-outs. Although she was the only girl in the game at the time, it never affected her confidence. She said, “People always told me I couldn’t pursue it [football] and that was a big enough motivational factor in itself.”

Cuthbert believes that the importance of educating young girls aspiring a career in football is crucial to the development of the game. “People should be aware that it is possible to make your dreams happen, don’t let anything stop you from doing what you want to do.” Recent posts plastered over social media from parents sharing their daughter’s stories of verbal abuse of playing football has spurred on the support in the football community. “ I think it’s disgusting that in this day and age people are frowned upon for doing a sport that they love and are happy.”

In 2009, the upcoming star was beginning to live her dream after signing for her childhood club. And was one of the “founding members” of the youth set-up at Rangers as there was no pathway for girls to get into the first team. As a passionate Rangers fan and devoted footballer, Cuthbert was truly living the dream. “It was a great feeling being part of something special.”

In December 2016, Cuthbert’s hard work continued to pay off. She received an invitation to training with the Chelsea Women’s team whilst at Glasgow City. After making a memorable impression on the team and managers. There was already a contract waiting for her after going through security at the airport on her way home.

The midfielder explains, “It was a tough decision to make the move, I had a lot to give up, but football has always outweighed all of the cons and has given me some incredible opportunities. I feel at home here (Chelsea) and I cannot imagine myself anywhere else.”

At the beginning of September 2018, she played a part in the Scotland squad qualifying for the World Cup next year, “It was a massive honour to represent the country, it was incredible. When you have a result like that it really bonds you, we have a special group together and everyone is playing for one another.” said Cuthbert who already has 23 caps for her country.

After a memorable milestone achievement, Erin hopes that the success of the women’s national squad will influence the upcoming stars of the game, “I think it will inspire young girls, the opportunity for girls in Scotland is absolutely massive right now. We just need people to continue to support and get behind us.”

Many people told her that she wouldn’t succeed because of her gender, “People should be made aware that it is possible to make your dreams happen.” Erin Cuthbert has sculpted a first-class representation of what is achievable for young girls aspiring a career in football.