Former West Ham footballer George Parris coaching players at Roedean school in Brighton _(Image: David McHugh / Brighton Pictures)_
A former footballer will coach schoolgirls in a new bid to grow grassroots girls' game.
Ex-West Ham and Seagulls midfielder, George Parris, is set to mentor and coach Roedean students in partnership with Whitehawk FC.
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The aim is to give more match opportunities, nurture tactical development, and provide a pathway into club football for talented players.
Parris, now the Hawks’ head of women and girls coaching, will lead the initiative.
He will be supported by Ryan Gaylor, director of youth football at Whitehawk FC.
Mr Parris said: "This partnership marks the start of a long-term journey - one that will open doors, encourage passion, and help shape the future of girls' football—not just in Brighton, but beyond.
"Grassroots football for girls has come a long way since my daughter, who is now 30, played and there are so many more opportunities for girls and women.
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"I am just happy to be a part of that.
"Whitehawk is the second biggest club in Brighton and Roedean is the biggest girls school in Brighton so I think it’s a great fit."
The partnership is part of Roedean's commitment to enhance football at the school.
Headteacher Niamh Green said: "At Roedean, we are committed to nurturing empowered, ambitious, and resilient young women, and our partnership with Whitehawk Football Club is a powerful extension of that vision.
"This collaboration will not only elevate the sporting opportunities available to our students but also help embed a dynamic football culture within the school—one that champions teamwork, determination, and the belief that there are no boundaries to what our girls can achieve."
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Mr Gaylor added: "This is more than just a football programme.
"It’s a shared commitment to building opportunity, confidence, and long-term pathways for young female athletes.
"We’re incredibly proud to be partnering with Roedean and look forward to welcoming their students into the Whitehawk family."