The Head of Girls and Women's Football at Southampton FC has been awarded an honorary degree.

Marieanne Spacey-Cale, Head of Girls and Women’s Football at Southampton FC, has been awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Sport by Solent University, Southampton.

Marieanne has had an accomplished history in women’s football, establishing herself as one of the most successful women in the sport. This career really took off in 1993 with Marieanne’s move to Arsenal Ladies, where she spent eight seasons and went on to win four league titles and four FA cups with the Gunners.

In 2002, Marieanne would on to play for Fulham where her success continued, winning a domestic treble during the 2002/2003 season, before retiring in 2005 with five league titles, six FA Cups and five League Cups to her name.

Marieanne also boasts an impressive international career, earning 91 caps and scoring 28 goals during her years playing for England’s Lionesses between 1984-2001. She also represented her country in the first FIFA Women’s World Cup in 1995 and later as assistant manager, would help her country to third place in the 2015 World Cup.

Commenting on her award, Marieanne says; “I am extremely honoured and flattered to be awarded an Honorary Degree in Sport from Solent University. I have played for and worked with some fantastic people who have supported me throughout my career and without these people I wouldn’t be in a position to receive this Honorary Degree. I hope that my journey will inspire others to follow their dreams and create memories to be proud of."