Burnley students in safe hands

Mentoring role: Rachel Brown-Finnis with UFCB students Elena Longshaw, Chloe Simpson and Leah Jakeman.

Rachel, who is goalkeeper for England and Everton Ladies, has been appointed mentor and executive speaker at Burnley’s football business college, UCFB.

The 33-year-old, who was born and brought up in Burnley but now lives in Liverpool, said: “I want to dispel the myths surrounding women’s football and want to inspire young women in football. I didn’t have a female sports idol when I was growing up but I hope that I can act as a role model for the new generation of female professionals, both on and off the pitch.

“The people of Burnley have always been supportive in absolutely everything I have done. I have a really close affinity with the area and always will. It means so much to me to be back working here.”

Rachel, who was part of Team GB for last year’s Olympics and was called up for this summer’s Euros, has been playing football since she was seven and loves all aspects of sport.

After leaving St Christopher’s High School in Accrington and studying A-levels in PE, human biology and Spanish at Nelson and Colne College, Rachel continued her education in sports science in America.

She said that her move to the USA was partly due to the indifferent attitude which she felt England had towards women’s football – something she is now keen to address through her work at UCFB.

Rachel’s role will be aimed at inspiring all students, with special focus on inspiring young women to achieve in the football industry. She will also use her contacts in the sports industry to help students secure sought-after placements.