Chantelle swaps Chelsea for Harps

Finn Harps have announced that former Chelsea Ladies player Chantelle Grant has joined the coaching staff of the club's Schools programme.

The Letterkenny native began her football career with Oldtown Celtic boys team and Bonagee underage sides before joining Lagan Harps ladies team.  Next up was the plush but highly competitive environs at Chelsea Ladies academy, where Chantelle spent 18 months receiving elite coaching which she hopes to pass onto aspiring young female players.

Since returning home Chantelle has received a sports scholarship from LYIT, has represented Ulster in the Gaynor Cup whilst also continuing her playing career with Lagan ladies team.
 

So what was it like playing for Chelsea?
 

"It was an unbelievable experience" says Chantelle.  "It was hard at first trying to get used to the pace of the game and competing against the other girls, as the standard was very high - however everyone at the club was lovely and made me feel at home straight away. I was in awe of the facilities that Chelsea had.

"They were so much different to what I was used to seeing from playing football at home. I learned so much during my time at Chelsea and through the Finn Harps schools programme I hope to share that experience with both male and female kids. Coaching is something I am very passionate about and it would be great to encourage more girls to play football," she said

"Everyone at the club is delighted to have Chantelle on board", Finn Harps Schools' officer John Campbell said, "as she will bring great qualities to our programme. In addition to being a qualified coach, Chantelle's experience as a professional footballer means we can offer young female footballers invaluable advice and training so they can improve their game."