Story added: 20th August 2026

Abi signs for Norwich City Women after eight years in the Foundation Pathway

Abi’s journey with the Foundation has been a long, steady progression over eight years. Last month, she took a brilliant next step by signing for Norwich City Women, becoming one of the latest players to move from our Football Development Programme into the senior team. 

Abi first joined the Foundation at eight years old, entering the Football Development Programme in 2018 as a young goalkeeper. By 2025/26, she was part of the first-ever cohort to represent the Foundation’s U16 Girls in the Boys U14s Junior Premier League, playing competitive fixtures each week across the UK and at The Nest.  

Abi becomes the 12th current Norwich City Women first‑team player to have progressed through the Foundation’s Football Development Programme. The programme has produced several standout graduates over the years – most notably double‑winning Euros champion and current Lioness, Lauren Hemp. 

 Her U16s coach, Scott Emmerson, says Abi’s progression reflects everything the pathway is designed to support. 

 “Seeing players like Abi progress through the Foundation’s development programme is exactly what our pathway is all about. Her dedication, work ethic, and technical development during her time in the academy have been exceptional. 

“Throughout last season she showed her potential in matches and had a real desire to develop and find every small margin to refine her game by asking staff. It’s incredibly rewarding for all coaches involved to see her move into the women’s first-team environment, and she’s a fantastic example for young players in Norfolk of what can be achieved through hard work and maximising your talent.” 

Abi speaks warmly about the coaches who helped her along the way, and the experiences that shaped her both on and off the pitch. 

“Over the years, I’ve been trained by many excellent coaches at the Foundation. Summer Ward, Ryan Dickerson and Scott Emmerson all worked closely with me, and each of them encouraged me to push myself, believe in my abilities and grow not only as a footballer but as a person too.” 

Her time in the pathway also opened doors to opportunities she’ll never forget. 

“Being part of the Foundation helped me get recognised and invited to Future Lioness talent events across Norfolk and London. I’m extremely grateful for the football tour memories – travelling to Manchester and Belgium – and experiencing boys’ grassroots football growing up, which made the transition into the JPL league with the girls U16s much smoother. I enjoyed every minute of it.” 

For Summer Ward, Girls Football Development Manager at the Foundation, Abi’s signing is a moment of real pride. 

“It has been an absolute pleasure to work with Abi over the years, both on and off the pitch, and to support her development throughout her time in the pathway. She has always dedicated herself fully to the programme and consistently performed to the best of her abilities. Signing for Norwich City Women is a testament to her hard work and commitment. We are incredibly proud of her, and we hope her journey inspires many more players to follow in her footsteps.” 

Abi finishes with a message for anyone considering joining the programme. 

“I will always appreciate everything the Foundation has taught me and the opportunities it’s given me. I’d encourage any young aspiring footballer to grasp the chance to be part of the programme. I hope to be around the Foundation environment again in the future – I enjoyed every minute of it.” 

Abi’s signing is a brilliant achievement and a reflection of eight years of dedication. Everyone at the Foundation is proud of her journey and excited to see what comes next.