Earps receives honorary degree
Manchester United Women goalkeeper Mary Earps has been awarded an honorary degree by Loughborough University for her outstanding contributions to not only sport, but to the global recognition and celebration of female sporting excellence.
Mary, who attended the university as a student and graduated with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) award in Information Management and Business Studies in 2016, has continued to pave the way as an inspiration in the world of football, representing United and England at the very highest level over recent years.
Having recently been included on the six-person shortlist for BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2023, Earps was also named the BBC Women's Footballer of the Year just last month, becoming the first goalkeeper to claim the honour.
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The United shot-stopper was named the best goalkeeper at the FIFA Women's World Cup over the summer, having been awarded the Golden Glove accolade, and has returned following the Lionesses' campaign in Australia and New Zealand to continue making an impact for the Reds.
Earps has kept four clean sheets in nine starts so far this term, including in each of our last two WSL outings, away to Bristol City and Tottenham.
Marc Skinner's side are currently fourth in the WSL standings, having lost just one game in the league to this point in 2023/24.
Proudly speaking after being honoured at Loughborough's winter graduation service on Thursday, Mary explained what this latest piece of prestigious recognition means to her.
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“It’s great to be part of the growth of women’s football. Many people have come before us and we’ve stood on their shoulders and benefited from that. Hopefully, future generations will equally benefit from what we’ve achieved in this time.
“I know being here today is not something everyone gets to do and I’m thankful to be awarded this honorary degree for my contributions to sport.”
“Loughborough is an institution that is synonymous with sporting excellence and alumna such as Mary make us incredibly proud. We’re delighted to award Mary an honorary degree as we look forward to her achieving yet more greatness on the global stage.”
A huge congratulations, Mary – we are so proud of you and everything you are achieving.