A talented footballer and Southampton Solent University student enjoyed a successful stint helping the British Army women's football team reach new heights. 

Olivia Venditto supported the team during their preparation for the 2025 Inter Services tournament, which brings together personnel from the British Army, Navy and Royal Air Force to compete in different sports. 

The BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Psychology undergrad who is currently on loan at Moneyfields from AFC Bournemouth spent three months providing psychological support to the team, helping them get into a winning mindset ahead of their matches.

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Olivia supported 30 different athletes and had the opportunity to learn from eight coaches.

She said: "I am incredibly grateful to have had this excellent opportunity to support the team, providing psychological support alongside Sport Psychology lecturer, Tom Doncom.

"As a footballer myself, I have loved being in this positive environment, and it's been an incredible privilege to contribute to such a dedicated team and grow both personally and professionally.

"Working with the team has been a unique chance to apply my knowledge of sport psychology in a real-world setting and has inspired me to continue pursuing my passion for supporting other athletes."

Olivia's support paid off, helping the team take home a 2-0 victory at home against the Royal Navy. This was a huge win for the British Army women's football team, as it marked their first in six years.

The team secured the Knights Cup and a final appearance against the RAF. While the RAF took home the final win, it was a close battle at 4-3, and the team celebrated their best performance since 2019.

Following her success with the team, Olivia has been invited back for the 2026/27 tournament.

Head Coach of British Army Women's Football, Sergeant Craig Parker, added: "The short but noticeable impact Olivia has had on the team from a psychological perspective has been incredible; she is a mature and professional individual with an eye for detail."

As a practice-led university, Solent is committed to giving students opportunities to put what they learn on campus into practice in professional environments.