Lucy Spours (AWFC Academy Medical Lead)

What was your very first role at our club and what attracted you to working here in the first place?

My first role at the club was as a Matchday Steward at Emirates Stadium whilst I was a student. It was great to be part of the matchday atmosphere and feel connected to the club. More recently, I worked as a Casual Physiotherapist for the Women’s Academy. I wanted to be part of a club that was investing in the women’s game and contribute to the future of women’s football.

Can you talk us through your journey from Casual Matchday Steward to AWFC Academy Medical Lead?

I spent a couple of years working largely with the U12s (and let me tell you, the future is bright!), building up experience during evenings and weekends whilst working full-time in the NHS. I then had the opportunity to support the U21s as the provision expanded, which I jumped at.

There, I had the chance to work with one of the country’s youngest U21 squads, who went on to win the league. When the Academy Medical Lead position became available, I put myself forward for the role.

Now, I lead an exciting and growing team of Casual Physiotherapists who support all age groups across the Academy, helping create a pathway for our young players. A recent highlight has been seeing Academy players progress all the way to the Women's First Team - being involved in matchday squads and making their debuts.

What skills did you develop while working as Casual Physiotherapist that helped you progress?

I gained a huge amount of experience during my years in the Casual role. There was endless hands-on learning through injury assessments, return-to-play decisions, educating and communicating with parents and players, and adapting to different situations - every day is different.

Perhaps most importantly, I had the opportunity to work alongside extremely knowledgeable colleagues, not only within physiotherapy but across the wider performance team. Working in a multidisciplinary environment is like a series of overlapping Venn diagrams - there is always relatable knowledge and insight to gain from others.

What makes our club a good place to build a long-term career?

My experience at Arsenal highlights the development pathways available within the club. My advice would be to seize opportunities, push yourself outside your comfort zone at times, and focus on building strong relationships with people.

It’s amazing how much you can develop professionally within the space of just a couple of years.

What would you say to someone starting out as a Casual today?

Be enthusiastic and inquisitive. Be a sponge and try to soak everything up - whether that’s developing your skills, expanding your knowledge, or simply enjoying the role and the people you work with.

It’s pretty special to be able to call the football pitch your office and be part of such a big team.

In one sentence, how would you sum up your journey at our club?

Rewarding, purposeful, and exciting.