Sophie Coward began playing football at the age of seven with St Anne’s Rovers Girls, starting a journey that has since taken her through a number of clubs including Crosby Stuart, Formby, Prescot Cables, Liverpool Feds, Chorley and Poulton Vics.
One of the proudest moments of Sophie’s career came during her time with Liverpool Feds, when she won the Golden Boot. The achievement was made even more memorable when she received the award at Wembley during the Women’s FA Cup final as part of the FAWNL awards ceremony.
A fast, determined and direct striker, Sophie describes herself as an energetic forward who enjoys pressing defenders and looking to exploit space in behind. She likes to put opposition defences under pressure, force mistakes and, most importantly, score goals.
She identifies both her goalscoring ability and her pressing as her biggest strengths on the pitch.
Sophie’s ambitions with Wanderers are to help the team win the league while continuing to improve and develop as a player.
The number 10 shirt also has particular significance for her. It was the number Sophie wore at her first club and one she has always wanted to continue wearing throughout her career.
Get to know Sophie
Steven Gerrard was Sophie’s footballing idol growing up. Having grown up in the same area, she particularly admired his leadership and passion.
Her favourite memory as a football supporter is watching Liverpool win the Champions League in 2019.
Away from football, Sophie enjoys spending time with friends and family and travelling whenever she gets the opportunity.
She combines playing for Wanderers with studying Psychology at university, where she is currently in her second year. Sophie also works part-time as a support worker at a day centre, caring for young adults with disabilities.
There is one important part of her matchday routine – Sophie always warms up without her shin pads on.
And something Wanderers supporters might not expect? Despite being energetic and intense on the pitch, Sophie describes herself as very chilled and introverted away from football.
Favourite food: Pasta
Favourite holiday destination: Hvar, Croatia
Favourite football stadium: Anfield
Pet: A dog called Luna
Sweet or savoury: Sweet