Royal Navy Officer Cadet helps team achieve Hampshire Cup glory

An Officer Cadet from HMS King Alfred secured a cup winner’s medal as her side, Portsmouth FC Women, beat Southampton 3-2 in the Hampshire Cup final.

OC Jade Widdows, 26, is in her third season playing for Portsmouth and the team have had their season severely disrupted during the pandemic.

“Everything for us was suspended, no games or training so we have had very limited contact as a squad,” said Jade, who is a college sports lecturer in her civilian life.

“We've demonstrated our resilience, we have high expectations, and have fought hard to ensure we take something positive from what has been a difficult season for many.”

The match was hard fought but the Portsmouth side prevailed with a score of 3-2 after a tense penalty shoot-out.

Jade, who plays as a striker, added: “It brings a great sense of pride, to represent Pompey and keep the tradition going. This is the club's 12th consecutive Hampshire cup win so I would be disappointed if we were to end that long-standing record! These are the moments we live for, and I want to make the most of every single opportunity I get to experience them!”

Jade recently joined the RNR as an Officer Cadet and is preparing to complete the Accelerated Officer Programme this summer which will she her undertake Phase 1 training and Initial Sea Time in a compressed eight-week timescale.

“I want to be pushed to my full potential and I want the opportunities to grow and develop individually and professionally. I hate the thought of ‘coasting’ along through life and need a constant challenge.”

Pictures: David Haines and Kieron Louloudis on behalf of Portsmouth FC.