Hayley Ladd: From Wales International to Everton Star
Hayley Ladd is one of the most recognisable names in women’s football today. A versatile player who can operate as both a defender and midfielder, she has built her reputation through determination, consistency, and leadership on and off the pitch. Currently representing Everton in the Women’s Super League and Wales at international level, Hayley Ladd has combined professional football with academic excellence, including pursuing higher education and research projects. Her journey reflects not only sporting achievement but also a passion for personal growth and social impact.
Early Life and Background
Childhood and Roots
Hayley Elizabeth Ladd was born on 6 October 1993 in Dacorum, England. Although born in England, her connection to Wales runs deep. Through her father, who hails from Haverfordwest in Pembrokeshire, she became eligible to represent the Wales national team, a decision that shaped the international side of her career.
Growing up, she quickly demonstrated an interest in sport, excelling in football and physical education. She attended Verulam School, where she gained strong academic results alongside her athletic pursuits. Her A-Levels included Maths, Biology, and Physical Education, where she achieved high grades that reflected her discipline both on and off the field.
Education and Academic Pursuits
Loughborough University Years
After completing her school education, Hayley Ladd joined Loughborough University, a renowned institution for sports and science. There she studied Human Biology and graduated with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree, earning a 2:1 classification.
At university, she also played a key role in student activities, working as a course mentor and contributing as Fundraising Secretary for the football team. These experiences helped her balance sporting commitments with leadership responsibilities, preparing her for life as a professional athlete.
Continuing Studies and MBA
Hayley Ladd has not limited herself to football alone. Alongside her career, she is pursuing an MBA with Longford College, where her thesis focuses on environmental sustainability in football. This reflects her desire to blend athletic excellence with sustainable practices, showing a long-term commitment to positive change in sport and society.
Football Career Journey
Early Beginnings with Arsenal
Her professional journey started in the youth setup at Arsenal. Although she did not make senior league appearances for the first team, her time there shaped her early development and introduced her to top-level training environments.
Move to Finland – Kokkola Futis 10
In 2012, Hayley Ladd moved abroad to play for Kokkola Futis 10 in Finland’s Naisten Liiga. This short stint gave her valuable international exposure, with 12 appearances that tested her adaptability in a different football culture.
Coventry City and Early Club Career
Returning to England, she joined Coventry City in the Women’s Premier League. Here she combined football with her studies, proving her commitment to excelling in multiple areas simultaneously.
Bristol City and Birmingham City
Her breakthrough at the top level came with Bristol City Women in 2015. Over two years she established herself as a reliable player, before moving to Birmingham City in 2017. At Birmingham, she became a key squad member, further enhancing her reputation within the Women’s Super League.
Manchester United Career
In 2019, Hayley Ladd signed for Manchester United Women, a club newly promoted to the top flight. Across nearly six years, she became one of their most consistent performers, making more than 80 league appearances and contributing vital goals. Her time at United was marked by team success as well, including winning the Women’s FA Cup in 2024.
Transfer to Everton
In January 2025, she made the switch to Everton Women in search of more playing time and fresh challenges. Wearing the number 16 shirt, she continues to bring her versatility to the team, playing primarily in midfield but also stepping into defensive roles when required.
International Career with Wales
First Cap and Early Years
Hayley Ladd made her senior debut for Wales on 15 June 2011 against New Zealand. Since then, she has become a cornerstone of the national team setup.
Achievements and Leadership
She reached the milestone of over 100 caps, scoring key goals along the way. One of her memorable strikes came during a 2019 World Cup qualifier against Kazakhstan, where she scored from a free kick.
In 2024, her leadership qualities were recognised as she was appointed vice-captain of Wales. Her international journey has seen her participate in crucial qualifiers, and in 2025 she was selected for the squad at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, a historic tournament for Welsh women’s football.
Playing Style and Strengths
Versatility
Hayley Ladd is known for her versatility, comfortably playing as a defensive midfielder, central midfielder, or in defensive positions. Her ability to read the game and anticipate danger makes her a valuable asset to any team.
Tactical Awareness
She excels in tactical organisation, often serving as a link between defence and midfield. Her composure on the ball, combined with an excellent passing range, allows her to control the tempo of matches.
Leadership
Beyond her technical abilities, Ladd’s leadership and professionalism stand out. Younger teammates often view her as a role model, and her academic achievements further reinforce her image as a complete professional.
Personal Life
Partner and Engagement
Off the pitch, Hayley Ladd is engaged to her partner Levi-Chambers Cook, with the couple announcing their engagement in June 2021. She keeps much of her personal life private, but her relationship is publicly acknowledged and celebrated.
Interests Beyond Football
Her passion for sustainability highlights her broader perspective on life. She uses her platform to advocate for positive change, reflecting a balance between career ambition and social responsibility.
Social Media and Public Image
Twitter/X Presence
On social media, she maintains an active presence with the handle @HayleyLadd. With more than 15,000 followers, she engages fans by sharing updates about her career, training, and personal milestones.
Brand Representation
Hayley Ladd is a Puma Athlete, represented by Base Soccer Agency. These partnerships underline her recognition within the sporting community, both as a player and as a professional figure.
Achievements and Career Highlights
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Over 100 international caps for Wales.
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Member of Manchester United squad that won the FA Cup in 2024.
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Appointed vice-captain of Wales in 2024.
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Academic achievements including a BSc in Human Biology and an ongoing MBA.
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Known for versatility across midfield and defensive roles.
Conclusion
Hayley Ladd’s career reflects far more than success on the football pitch. From her early days in England to becoming a vital player for Wales and Everton, she embodies resilience, intelligence, and leadership. Her pursuit of higher education, with a focus on environmental sustainability, demonstrates a unique commitment to creating impact both within and beyond football.
With over a decade of professional experience, international recognition, and an eye on future contributions to sport and society, Hayley Ladd continues to inspire fans, teammates, and the next generation of footballers.
