Four the Girls: Saints Women's Football Welcomes a New Team
Growing demand for competitive women’s football at the University of St Andrews has led to the creation of a new women’s 4s team, offering more opportunities for players unable to secure places on the existing performance teams.
The team aims to establish itself as a competitive side, with the long-term ambition of entering British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) competition for the 2027–28 season. The 4s offers a pathway for players to develop their skills and gain match experience.
The club's recruitment coordinator, Tyra Bogan, saw first-hand the demand for places on competitive women's teams, helping highlight the need for an additional side.
Coached by third-year student Alex Tenney, second-year student Caroline Carr-Smith, and women's 3s coach Dean Boath, the team began its season with a friendly against Abertay 2s, which ended in a 0–0 draw.
Despite creating several chances, the Saints were unable to break through Abertay's defence. Poppy Greenwood posed a threat in attack, creating opportunities for the Saints, while centre-back Karenna “KK” Gottfrid helped hold the defensive line and keep Abertay from scoring. Overall, the Saints dominated possession and worked well together in their first match as a team, offering an encouraging start to the season.
“I’m proud of all the girls who have put in the hard work at every session. They showed they can compete at a high level going toe-to-toe with a competitive Abertay 2s side,” Boath said.
4s midfielder and captain Geena Hinchliffe said, “It was our first time playing together so we were still adapting to each other, but there were some really good plays with loads of chances! Next time we will go for the win.”
The additional 4s team also builds on the club's existing recreational football sessions, held on Thursdays from 4:30 pm to 6 pm and Saturdays from 11:30 am to 1 pm. Boath also attends the Thursday sessions, where the club is looking to accommodate players with different ambitions.
One proposal under consideration is to separate the session into groups for players looking to train towards competitive football and those who simply want to play for enjoyment. This could help the club support players interested in progressing to a more competitive level.
The development of the 4s has also received support from players across the women's football club with members from the 2s and 3s volunteering their time to help coach the team. This involvement reflects the wider club's commitment to developing the 4s.
For Alex and Caroline, establishing the 4s marks an important step towards expanding competitive opportunities within the club.
“Caroline and I are so excited to finally create and maintain a 4s team! It's been a long time coming,” Tenney said.
Looking ahead, Boath said: “This was the first fixture the Women’s 4s have had and it is a big milestone for the group as we look to turn the 4s into a competitive team next season. We’ll be looking to arrange more games throughout the year to build on the foundation that’s now been set.”
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