Estcourt Comes Home to Childhood Club
Reading FC Women is delighted to announce the much-anticipated return of former Academy Graduate and WSL 2 champion, Charlie Estcourt. After a brief departure from the club in 2020, the talented midfielder is back in RG2, once again donning the Royal blue and white.
Charlie's journey with Reading FC Women began at the tender age of nine when she joined the club's esteemed youth academy. Over four years, she honed her skills and showcased her potential through our play pathway, leaving a lasting impression on her childhood club.
The Berkshire-born midfielder's impressive progress led her to Chelsea's youth pathway, but her heart was always with Reading. In 2016, she made a triumphant return, earning her first professional contract with the Royals. That season, she made three senior appearances and contributed to the team's title-winning campaign, propelling them into the Barclays Women's Super League.
Driven by the desire to enhance her skills, Charlie went on to embark on three successful loan spells at Bristol City (across two seasons) and Charlton Athletic. Her dedication paid off, as she amassed over 30 appearances, gaining invaluable experience and mastery over her craft.
In June 2020, Charlie made a move to Championship side London Bees, where she quickly established herself as a key player, missing only two games throughout the entire league season and netting two impressive goals.
Eager for further growth, Charlie embraced an opportunity at Coventry United, where she played an instrumental role in helping the team achieve two remarkable escapes. From narrowly avoiding liquidation in January to securing their Championship status with a sensational 30-yard free-kick from Mollie Green in the 96th minute against Watford, Charlie's talent and determination shone through.
Last season, she represented Birmingham City, making 15 appearances under the guidance of Darren Carter's Blues, finishing a close second, just one point behind the title winners.
As well as a well-documented club career, Charlie has also established herself as a regular member of the Wales National Team. She first got onto the international scene at the age of 16 on 6th March 2015, against Bosnia in the Instria Cup. In September 2016 came her first goal for Wales, with many likening it to Hal Robson Kanu’s fine finish against Belgium in Euro 2016. Charlie has since gone over to score twice more in just shy of 40 caps.
As her contract came to an end this summer, Charlie made a heartfelt decision to return home to the club that holds a special place in her heart, and Reading FC Women couldn't be happier to welcome one of their own back to RG2.
Upon her return, Charlie Estcourt expressed her excitement, saying, "This club just feels like home.
"It was the club that gave me the chance to follow my dream, I’ve had some really special times here, from making my professional debut to from lifting the WSL 2 trophy.
“The club is obviously going through a bit of a transition period now, but I am just so excited to get started and help build a near future at the club.”
As Charlie Estcourt dons the Royal blue once more, we're certain that her passion, talent, and dedication will add immense strength to the squad. Join us in giving Charlie a warm welcome home, as we look forward to witnessing her excel on the pitch once again.
