A teenager who has been playing for Garston Ladies FC since the age of seven has now been signed by Crystal Palace.
At the tender age of seven, Gabs Spillman was spotted kicking a ball about with her sister and brother by Garston Ladies chair and club secretary, Dave Annal. Dave invited Gabs to come along to Garston Ladies U8 training. The youngster quickly excelled and, after trialling, was invited to train at Arsenal Ladies’ Centre of Excellence.
After years of success at Garston Ladies, Gabs joined Luton Town Ladies in October 2023. She made her first-ever FA Cup appearance for Luton as a late substitute against Harpenden Town Women and scored two goals, becoming one of the youngest-ever scorers in the Women’s FA Cup.
Now 16, Gabs lives in Radlett and is studying for her A Levels at St Margaret’s School in Bushey.
The talented teen has just ended her last season at Garston Ladies, having scored 85 goals, and once again was the top scorer in the Watford Friendly League U18s, with a League and Cup double to boot.
Gabs is also now signed by Crystal Palace for the Professional Game Academy U21s team. She is dual registered with Luton and Crystal Palace and will began training with the latter at the end of July. She dreams of one day playing for England and in the Women’s Super League.
Speaking to GARSTONnews, her dad Marc said: “We are so incredibly proud of Gabs and all that she has achieved. Her passion for women’s football, commitment to school, and the amazing work she does to promote Beyond Charity as a Youth Board member demonstrates her resilience and shows maturity beyond her years.
“Garston Ladies have provided the platform she’s built her success upon, and we’re extremely grateful for the help, support and guidance the club has provided as she pursues her dream to become a professional footballer.”
Photo credit: Duncan Jack
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