An up-and-coming football star has scooped the top prize in a virtual sporting contest supported by Scotland’s top footballers.
Rachel Ramsay, 10, has been unable to train with her teams Dundee United WFC and Dundee Sporting but thanks to virtual training sessions backed by Scotland stars such as Andy Robertson and Billy Gilmour, the youngster has been able to keep up her football skills at home.
Her commitment has earned her the top spot in the girl’s category of Scottish Building Society Player of the Month award.
Youth Football Scotland has set up an online resource Keep Scotland Active in an effort to support players and coaches during lockdown.
Players earn points each day by logging into the website and recording their home training activities, with over 3000 young footballers taking part.
Rachel was unable to receive the accolade in person due to social distancing guidelines but Neve Guthrie, Scotland youth international and Dundee United WFC player presented the 10-year-old with the virtual award.
Dundee United’s WFC received another praise as Alexis Low, who also plays for Fairmuir FC, was runner-up in the category.
Robbie Forsyth, Director of Youth Football Scotland, said: “We have been overwhelmed at the response to Keep Scotland Active.
“It is great to see international stars such as Andy and Billy help inspire the 3000 youngsters who are taking part.
“So many young players across the country have put in an incredible effort but, in the month of May, Scott and Rachel really excelled.
“They have been working hard every single day coming up with all sorts of creative ideas to make their home training sessions fun and unique.
“They’ve been an inspiration to other young players across Scotland and should be very proud of their achievement.”
Scottish Building Society already sponsor the SWPL – and are continuing to do so in lockdown.
Kerra McKinnie, Marketing Director, said: “We are delighted to be backing the first Player of the Month Awards.
“It is a wonderful initiative that keeps boys and girls connected and engaged while grassroots football is in lockdown.
“Congratulations to Scott and Rachel – and we are looking forward to the day when we can hand over the awards to them in person.”
