For many footballers, the love of the game begins in childhood. For Moneyfields FC Women’s Emma Moody, that spark ignited at just five years old. “I started playing for my primary school team and local club, South Park FC,” she recalls. “I was the only girl in the league until I was about ten.”
With no girls’ teams nearby, Emma eventually stepped away from football to focus on athletics—until a surprise opportunity pulled her back in. “Out of the blue, my parents got a call from Beecholme Belles Girls, who needed a goalkeeper. I ended up playing in goal for two to three years.”
From there, her journey gathered momentum. Emma went on to play for Redhill Ladies and then Horley Town Ladies, where she made the switch from goalkeeper to outfield player—a move that reignited her passion for the sport.
A season with Crystal Palace followed, where she played alongside current Moneyfields teammate Kim Fuller.
Her six years at Cambridge University proved just as influential. There, she represented the university women’s team, earning a coveted Blue for football. She also played for Great Shelford WFC before a demanding work schedule forced her to step back from the game.
But football wasn’t done with her yet.
After moving to Southampton, Emma joined Southampton Saints Ladies and Girls, staying with the club until it folded. In the 2019/20 season, she signed for Moneyfields—recruited the old-fashioned way. “Karl took me to a pub and bought me a drink!” she laughs.
Since joining, Emma has witnessed significant progress at the club. “The infrastructure has come so far. The John Jenkins Stadium is a massive step up, and the new all-weather pitches mean we don’t have to cancel games anymore.”
Yet, through all the changes, the club’s spirit has stayed the same. “The culture is still what Karl calls the ‘Money’s DNA,’ and this is our first season as a semi-professional team.”
One of her standout memories? Last year’s FA Cup fourth-round tie against London City Lionesses. “The whole experience was incredible. We played out of our skins. Aside from a ten-minute dip, we matched them and were unlucky not to score.”
And her first goal? “I’ve scored so many screamers it’s hard to remember!” she jokes. “They were definitely all shots—not crosses.”
London City Lionesses remain the toughest side she’s faced, while Exeter have been fierce league rivals. Through it all, manager Karl has played a pivotal role in her growth. “He’s pushed me by playing me in different positions, which has really helped me develop.”
Emma’s commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed—she’s been named Manager’s Player of the Year twice. “It means a lot. I always give 100% every game.”
From her early days as the lone girl in a boys’ league to standout FA Cup performances and a leadership role at Moneyfields, Emma Moody’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and unshakable love for the game. And her journey is far from over.
