Former championship winning captain Ellie Curson to concentrate on teaching career.
Yeovil Town Ladies FC sadly announces that Ellie Curson has taken the decision to step back from her playing career for the immediate future.
Curson who will be embedded in the club’s history as the Captain of the 2016 FAWSL 2 League Championship Squad and her ever tigerish displays for the club, made her a fans favourite.
The decision comes during the international break where she has met and discussed with manager Jamie Sherwood the reasons for the decision.
Curson said, “This has probably been the hardest decision I have ever had to make as Yeovil Town Ladies FC has been a huge part of my life for the past few years.
“Unfortunately, my work commitments do not allow me to train full time and with the club moving towards full time training for next season, it now feels like the right decision for everyone involved. I am a primary school teacher and this profession doesn’t allow me to train full time due to the demand of my role.”
Curson went on to say, “The club has already achieved a huge amount of success and I can only wish that this continues. I truly wish the club all of the best for the rest of the season and for the future. I am hoping to attend some games to support the girls or will be watching the results closely.
“I would like to especially thank Stephen [Allinson – Club Chairman] and the Board for their efforts in achieving WSL1 status for next season, and would also like to make a special mention to both Trevor Jenkins & Jamie Sherwood who’s passion and determination for this club to develop and progress is faultless.
“Another special mention has to go to the loyal supporters who have always supported not only me but the whole team. My time here has been very enjoyable and I will always treasure memories, especially the promotion season which was the highlight of my footballing career, where I had the privilege to captain the team.”
Curson finished off by saying, “I am intending on continuing to play football and will be seeking a club at the start of next season, where I will be able to combine my career with training and playing part time.”
The midfielder has not only been a fans favourite but also been central to the dressing room. She became captain at the beginning of the 2016 season and has been integral to the progress and development of the club on and off the pitch.
Speaking about her departure, Jamie Sherwood said “It’s hard to think of a starting eleven or squad without Ellie in it, as she has been a huge part of the teams success.
“Her work as the Sister Club officer and a catalyst for pre match events has seen the club reach an audience many thought would not have been achieved.”
Sherwood went on to say “Even though I do not like this decision I respect it, as Ellie is a player I have worked with and supported since the age of eleven and I know how much this decision hurts, but is right for her future career as a teacher. All players and staff will be facing a crossroads throughout the remainder of this season as we transition towards a full time programme.”
Club Chairman, Stephen Allinson said “Ellie will forever be known as one of Yeovil Town Ladies greats. This is not only for her football ability which we have all admired, but she lived out all the values we seek to aspire to in our Club. She was a true ambassador and always had time for our supporters.
“I also want to pay tribute to her parents, Mike and Sue, who followed Ellie and the team home and away and in all conditions. Ellie and her family will always be welcome at our Club.”
Curson who made 67 FA WSL appearances after joining from local rivals then Bristol Academy, now Bristol City WFC, quickly established herself at Yeovil with dynamic & energetic displays and along the way, scored crucial goals, most of which came from outside the box. Who could forget the curling effort that clinched victory against her former club in 2016?
All at Yeovil Town Ladies FC wish Ellie every future success and we hope that we will not be seeing the end of Ellie’s work for the club, but for now, thank you skipper, you’ve represented us, guided us and now we wish you well in the next stage of your career.
#ABU
Report courtesy of Yeovil Town Ladies FC
