Women's Team

Stamps on individual success and first team journey

Shannon Stamps is looking to carry her fine form from the end of last year into the new season

Shannon Stamps is looking to carry her fine form from the end of last year into the new season, which begins this Sunday away at AFC Fylde.

The 21-year-old became a mainstay in the Albion Women first team last season, netting twice in 11 appearances.

And she was rewarded for her efforts at the end of season awards, winning Manager’s Player and Player’s Player.

“It was really nice to get those – I wasn’t expecting it," said Shannon.

“I think, personally, I started to find my rhythm towards the end of the season and now I want to kick on from that.”

Stamps ended the campaign by notching two goals in two of the Baggies' post-season friendlies, including an incredible curling strike against Long Eaton United.

In June, Shannon visited one of the Albion Foundation’s PL Kicks Girls Camps where she spent time playing matches and chatting about her experiences with Albion Women.

The midfielder has been at the club since she was a youngster, rising through the age groups to reach the first team.

“I started in the Under-10s and I’ve come all the way up," she added.

“The biggest step was when I moved from the Under-17s into the first team. It was a big step up and it pushed me to be a better player.

Now a regular in the starting XI, Shannon is encouraging other young players to embrace the challenge but - most importantly - enjoy it.

She said: “I’d encourage young players to enjoy it and work hard.

“If you enjoy it, get your head down and commit yourself then the staff here will help to get the best out of you.”

Following a busy but progressive pre-season, Shannon is confident the team can start another positive campaign.

“We’ve had a little bit of a break but we’re all ready to get started now," explained Stamps.

“We’ve got a good squad and I think we can have another good season. Let’s see where we can go in the cups and in the league this year.”