Zara Carroll to Step Down as First Team Captain
Real Bedford Ladies can confirm that club captain Zara Carroll will step down from first team player duties ahead of the 2024/25 season.
Having captained the club throughout an incredible treble winning campaign, Carroll will continue to represent Real Bedford in a variety of roles within the club, including coaching at age-grade level.
A trailblazer for ladies and girls football in Bedford, Carroll has lead the senior team on 25 occasions this campaign scoring crucial goals including in the decisive league winning match against Luton in April.
Zara Carroll said:
"My time with first team has sadly come to an end, but what a way to finish it! Captained the team to winning the treble and I have so many happy memories over the last 2 years, being on this journey with Real Bedford... I wish the team all the best for the upcoming season and will stay involved somehow I'm sure"
Chairman Peter McCormack gave praise to Carroll for her efforts at McMullen Park:
“Zara has been an incredible leader and positive influence for not only those playing alongside her but for young girls throughout our age-grade system. Her impact on the team this year cannot be understated, and there was no more fitting way for the girls to clinch the title than with Zara scoring the goal.”
We wish Zara all the best for the next chapter of her footballing career.
ABOUT REAL BEDFORD FC
Real Bedford FC is a non-league football club based in Bedford. Acquired by Peter McCormack in 2021, he set the ambitious goal of getting the team into the football league. After rebranding as Real Bedford, they won a league and cup double in their first season and were promoted to the Spartan South Midlands Premier League. During the 2023/24 campaign, the Men’s team not only completed back-to-back League and Cup doubles, but RBFC Ladies completed an inaugural treble. The club also received a ground-breaking investment from the Winklevoss Twins who became part-owners of the club in April 2024 after an initial $4.5m investment.
The club prides itself on its strong and growing community ties and dedication to developing local talent. With a focus on fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, Real Bedford FC aims to create opportunities for aspiring footballers and promote the sport's growth within the Bedford region.
