by Steph Arnull (20/12/23).
Above: Ruby Grant (right) battling away for England U23s against Italy. Photo: Lionesses.
In the dynamic realm of women’s football, a captivating narrative unfolds – a story not just of individual triumph but emblematic of the seismic shift in the sport’s overall landscape.
As women’s football is claiming its well-deserved spotlight on both domestic and international stages, one example that stands out is the remarkable journey of Ruby Grant. From the hallowed grounds of Arsenal’s youth academy to the challenges of North Carolina’s collegiate soccer and now proudly representing Swedish champions BK Häcken, Grant’s trajectory is a testament to the growing popularity and recognition of women’s football worldwide.
Her narrative seamlessly intertwines with the broader surge of women’s football into the limelight, propelled by the resounding success of the Lionesses at the Euros in 2022 and signalling a transformative era for the sport after years of dedication and determination.
Ruby Grant’s love affair with football began at Arsenal’s youth academy in North London. A captain in the making, she played a pivotal role in the Dallas Cup in Texas with the Arsenal U16s in 2016. The turning point came when – at just sixteen – she made her senior debut for Arsenal in the 2018-19 season, contributing to a decisive 4-0 away win against Everton.
In the following weeks, the North London side excelled, which culminated in being crowned as WSL champions. Alongside this, Grant remarkably juggled her football ambitions with academic pursuits, undertaking A-Levels in Biology, Psychology, and PE – showcasing the same discipline and focus that marked her on-field performances.
In a bold move that highlighted her commitment to personal and professional growth, Grant crossed the Atlantic at the age of 18 to join the North Carolina Tar Heels: a powerhouse in American collegiate soccer. Amidst the hurdles posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, she made a significant impact, leaving an indelible mark with her debut in a decisive 5-0 triumph over Delaware.
Furthermore, she scored an impressive hat trick during an early-season 7-0 victory against Tennessee. Under the tutelage of coach Anson Dorrance at the University of North Carolina, Grant honed her skills – illustrating the impact of the American collegiate system on her game.
However, after three years of growth and success, she decided to leave the college scene and pursue a professional career. In March 2023, Grant signed her first professional deal with Swedish Damallsvenskan champions BK Häcken. Today as she competes at the top level in the Champions League against the likes of WSL giants Chelsea, at just 21-years-old, Grant’s journey continues to break barriers and redefine what is possible for women in football.
Chosen for the England U23 squad in a recent selection, the midfielder known for adeptly positioning herself in dangerous zones earned her place in pivotal matches against France and Spain in November and December 2023 which solidified her role as a crucial player within the national team setup.
With an eye on the future, Grant’s story encapsulates the essence of a modern footballer: one who takes risks, works tirelessly, and has ambitious aspirations. As she prepares to face formidable opponents on the international stage, Grant embodies the spirit of a new generation of female footballers who are not only breaking barriers but also inspiring a global audience. I eagerly anticipate following her journey in the years to come.
Follow Impetus on social media – we’re @ImpetusFootball on Threads, Instagram, X (Twitter), TikTok, and Facebook.
impetusfootball.org 