Kendrick-Jones: How my time at Nomads set me up for US scholarship

From lifting the Genero Adran North title with Connah’s Quay Nomads to now taking up an opportunity of a lifetime in the USA, Poppy Kendrick-Jones reflects on how much her journey at the club has helped her build confidence ahead of her exciting scholarship.

Kendrick-Jones, who is still only 18-years-old, played a key role in our Genero Adran North title success, and she is now prepared to take on a new challenge across the globe, but she does so carrying a wealth of experiences and skills learned from her time at the club.

Heading to the states is a major milestone for Poppy - not just as a footballer, but also as a young woman chasing her dreams.

"I am so excited, it is such a big opportunity for me, and I can't wait to see what it is like out there," said Kendrick-Jones. "Playing in America is something I have always wanted to do, so I am really glad I have this chance.

"At the same time, there are of course mixed emotions as I'm sad to be leaving Connah’s Quay. All the girls, coaches and staff have been so welcoming since the day I joined, so I’m super grateful for that.

"Hopefully in America, I can keep developing as a player. I'm just really excited to experience it all and see what the place has to offer!" Kendrick-Jones' journey at the Nomads featured some defining moments, filled with valuable lessons.

There has also been a spectrum of experiences for the teenager, from lifting the Genero Adran North title to scoring a stunner in the promotion play-off final, where we were narrowly beaten.

Beyond that play-off final heartbreak, Kendrick-Jones points out the strong foundations and joyful environment set out at the club have been a main part of her growth.

"Winning the Adran North was a fantastic achievement for us all," she said. "Even though it was tough not getting the result we wanted in the play-off final, on a personal note, scoring in that match was a special moment and something I'll always remember.

"The experiences and the environment has really helped build my confidence and those things have been important in getting me ready for my next step.

"It's also taught me how to deal with the highs and lows of football, which I’m certain will help me out in America."

As she looks ahead to life across the Atlantic, Poppy reflected on when the idea of pursuing a scholarship in the USA first began to feel real.

The dream of playing in the USA was already in Poppy’s mind before she joined the Nomads, but the youngster credits the club for adding the extra layer of belief and hunger.

added Kendrick-Jones. "After I joined TNS, it became clearer that this was the path I wanted to pursue.

"Playing for Connah's Quay still meant I was playing football at a high level, and I want to maintain these high standards in America, while also studying there as that really appealed to me.

"I'm proud of the few years I’ve had in Wales. I've learned a lot and I'm going to miss playing for Connah’s Quay as I’ve really enjoyed my time here."

Now, with a scholarship secured, and her final training session with us right around the corner, Kendrick-Jones leaves one final message of advice for our young up and coming footballers at the Nomads who may dream of following in her footsteps one day.

"I would tell all young girls who want to be footballers to stay confident in themselves," she said. "I think that we are seeing some more exciting opportunities and different pathways opening up in women’s football nowadays, so there is something for everyone.

"There's a great setup at Connah's Quay with a great coaching team, so for anyone wanting to join, you should instantly trust the process! Great things will come."

While Kendrick-Jones sets off to the states after a fantastic year in Flintshire, the Nomads Women continue their pre-season preparations with Jordan Parry's side taking on Accrington Stanley at The Poppies 3G on Sunday, 3 August (2pm KO).