Leah White was delighted with the experience gained during her first season for Forfar Farmington in the senior leagues.
The 17 year old defender made twenty appearances as Farmington cruised to the Scottish Building Society Scottish Women’s Premier League Two title with White winning the Young Player of the Year award.
White played a part in both the league success and the run to the SSE Scottish Women’s Cup semi final and the teenager feels she has learned a lot in her first year in the squad.
“My first season playing in the Premier League has been a great experience and learning curve. Having the opportunity to play in the Scottish Cup semi final with Farmington’s Premier League team and winning a senior league title is something I never thought I would have achieved at the age of 17.”
White is the youngest player in the squad however she believes that she didn’t perform as well as she could have but hopes she can build on this over pre-season to impress head coach Mark Nisbet.
She said: “Being the youngest member of the team, I feel I didn’t perform at the level I know I’m capable of last season due to a lack of confidence in my ability. I’m aiming to build on my confidence during pre season training and games to show Mark that I’m capable of playing at this level of football and I’ll hopefully get the opportunity to contribute in more games next season.”
The defender won the Young Player of the Year award following her impressive season and White explained that she wasn’t expecting to win the award with it being her debut year.
“After a tough season it felt great to be awarded Young Player of the Year, it was very unexpected being my first season at SWPL level football. I really enjoyed being part of such an amazing squad and the girls have never stopped encouraging me, always pushing me to be the best I can.”
White praised her fellow team mates for their advice over the course of the year and hopes that in the future she can be the experienced player helping a young player.
“Playing alongside such a talented and experienced group of players has helped me massively. I feel my positioning on the pitch and my decision making during games has improved this season and I have the girls to thank for that.”
She continued: “They never stop encouraging me and always keep me right on the pitch, helping me perform the best I can although I still have a lot to improve on next season. One day I hope to be one of the experienced players on the pitch, encouraging and motivating the younger members in the team.”
The league season ended a month ago following their title win, while White is happy to have a break she is eager to get back to playing again and improving herself.
“Although it’s nice to have a break, I’m looking forward to getting back into my match kit and playing again. We have a lot of hard work to do in preparation for next season but I’m looking forward to pushing myself during pre season to ensure I’m ready to perform at my best next year.”
Farmington return to the top flight after just one season away and the defender believes the side can improve and ensure there is no repeat of the 2016 season.
“It will be a very difficult season for us next year but I’m looking forward to the challenge and I’m sure the rest of the girls are too. We played as a team this year, getting better and better as the season went on and I was never in doubt that we would return to the top flight at the first time of asking.”
“I think with lots of hard work, the squad can improve on their last showing in SWPL1 and prove to everyone that we can compete against the top teams and hopefully we will get some good results.”