Wayland Academy student offered full sports scholarship by University of Tennessee

We're so delighted to announce that one of our former students, Reeanna Cook, has been offered a full sports scholarship by the University of Tennessee!

Reeanna Cook, who had been scouted by Norwich City, will start at the University of Tennessee in September. After two years at the University of Tennessee, Reeanna will then move to a Division One university elsewhere in America, which can act as the springboard for a career in professional women’s football.

Reeanna was a Pupil Premium student who was identified and supported by the PE Department at Wayland Academy. She stood out when playing for the school football team as the only girl, before gaining a place in Norwich City’s Academy Development Programme after excelling at their trials, and even having the yearly fees waived due to the Academy’s eagerness to bring her on board. 

Staff at the school continued to support Reeanna, reorganising her school timetable she could take the bus to training, fundraising with local businesses to fund a taxi home each week, and even driving her to training for her last year. 

Reeanna Cook said: 

“I want to thank everyone at Wayland Academy for the support they gave getting me to where I am now, I wouldn’t have come this far without them. Just getting to Norwich was a challenge from where we are, but they made that possible. 

 

“I’m so excited to take this next step and move to America. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity and I can’t wait to give everything and see what comes next!” 

Kelly McCullagh, Teacher of PE at Wayland Academy, said: 

“When Reeanna called to let us know she would be playing in America next September, we were over the moon for her. She absolutely deserves every success – she works hard, is passionate about the game, and has a natural talent in football. 

 

“We will be following her career very closely and wish her all the best in September.”