Lauren Hemp - A Detailed Overview
Early Life
Lauren Hemp was born on the 7th of August, 2000, in North Walsham, England. From a young age, Hemp was extremely passionate about football, and her natural talent for the sport became evident as she grew. While still a teenager, Hemp was identified as a promising talent and was quickly integrated into the academy system.
Youth Career
Hemp started playing youth football with North Walsham Youth FC, where she caught the attention of scouts from Norwich City. In 2012, she joined Norwich City's Centre of Excellence and quickly made a name for herself. She developed rapidly at Norwich, honing her skills as a forward and gaining valuable experience.
Bristol City
In 2016, at the tender age of 16, Hemp signed her first professional contract with Bristol City. Her debut season was marred by injury, but she rebounded in her second season, scoring nine goals in 24 appearances. Her exceptional performances in the 2017-2018 season saw her win the PFA Young Player of the Year award, marking her as one of the most promising young talents in the English women's game.
Manchester City
After her successful stint at Bristol City, Hemp moved to one of England's most successful clubs, Manchester City, in 2018. Her impact was immediate, scoring on her debut against Everton. Hemp's performances continued to improve and she continued to impress, becoming a vital part of the Manchester City team. Hemp’s time at Manchester City has seen her win the Women's FA Cup twice, and also the Women's League Cup.
International Career
Hemp has been a part of the England setup from a young age, representing the nation at various age levels. She made her debut for the England senior team in 2018 and has since become a regular feature in the squad. Hemp played a crucial role in England's fourth-place finish at the 2018 U20 Women's World Cup, where she demonstrated her ability to perform on the international stage.
Style of Play
A fast, versatile forward, Hemp is known for her incredible speed, agility, and ability to beat defenders. She possesses excellent technical skills and balance, which allows her to breeze past opponents with ease and finesse. Her keen eye for goal and composed finishing make her a constant threat in front of the net. Hemp also contributes significantly to the team's defensive efforts, showing great discipline and work rate to press and recover the ball.
Awards and Achievements
Hemp's footballing journey has been marked by numerous accolades and achievements. At just 18, she was named PFA Young Player of the Year, a testament to her outstanding talent and potential. At the 2018 ESPYS, she took home the award for Best International Women’s Soccer Player. Furthermore, she has won titles with Manchester City and been a key player for the England national team.
Personal life
Off the field, Hemp leads a relatively private life. She has two brothers, Harry and William, both of whom have shown an interest in football. Hemp has spoken out about the importance of family support in her career and credits her success to their unwavering faith in her abilities. She is also a strong advocate for women's football and is actively involved in initiatives to promote and develop the women's game.