4 - Alex Sheppard - Defender
How did you first become interested in football and when did you start playing?
Ever since I can remember, I’ve always loved football! I probably started playing at age 7/8 at a place called the Acorn Centre. All the way through primary and secondary school I’d stick my trainers on at lunchtimes and play with the boys 😂.
What was your first team?
FC Torquay
Who was your sporting hero growing up?
Well my dad is a mad Everton supporter and took me to lots of games, so it has to be big Duncan Ferguson and Tim Cahill. As for the women, it has to be Lucy Bronze and Steph Houghton.
What positions have you played?
Right/left back, right/left mid and CB 😎
Which teams have you played for?
Plymouth Argyle, Devon County, Totnes & Dartington, Stoke Gabriel, Torquay United and Buckland Athletic
What’s been your footballing highlight so far?
For me it has to be playing Watford in the Fa cup, the girls had to travel twice to London and mentally prepare twice over. We fought so hard and matched them throughout the game and was unfortunate to lose out.
What are your hopes for the new season?
To give 100% every game. Finish top 3 and a trophy would be nice 😬
What are your long-term goals in football?
For me personally it’s just to play my best every game, give 100% and prepare. But most of all to go to sleep Saturday night with that buzz of playing Sunday morning 👌🏽
What advice would you give to young girls who want to play football?
If you're passionate about it, do it. Give it 100% and most of all enjoy it. Women’s football is on the rise and there are a lot more pathways and opportunities now, so if you get the chance don’t let anything distract you.
From players you’ve played with or against - what’s your dream 5 aside team? (4 plus you)
GK- The Cat aka Abbi Bond 😂 easily the best goalkeeper I’ve played with.
Mid- Gabi Trays! Machine at winning the ball, very composed and experienced player.
Mid- Zoe Cunningham, turns players for fun!
Att- Tash Knapman, goal machine (when she’s not injured 🙃)
GK - Abbi Bond - Buckland Athletic
Def - Alex Sheppard
Mid - Gabi Trays - Buckland Athletic
Mid - Zoe Cunningham - Buckland Athletic
Att - Tash Knapman - Buckland Athletic
Mid- Gabi Trays! Machine at winning the ball, very composed and experienced player.
Mid- Zoe Cunningham, turns players for fun!
Att- Tash Knapman, goal machine (when she’s not injured 🙃)
GK - Abbi Bond - Buckland Athletic
Def - Alex Sheppard
Mid - Gabi Trays - Buckland Athletic
Mid - Zoe Cunningham - Buckland Athletic
Att - Tash Knapman - Buckland Athletic