Pauline Cope

Football Museum Hal of Fame, MBN Promotions, Millenium Mayfair

Described by England coach Ted Copeland as the best female goalkeeper in the world, Pauline Cope won 60 caps during a 9 year period as England's No. 1.

An accomplished shot-stopper, Cope was the Lionesses' 'keeper for the 1995 Women’s World Cup in Sweden and the 2001 European Championship Finals.  However she started out as a Centre Half for her local side Millwall. Cope was thrown between the sticks when the regular goalie was missing during a junior game; for some time she alternated between the two positions, but her bravery, aggression and sheer presence made her an outstanding option in goal.

Her club career saw successful alternating spells with Millwall Lionesses and Arsenal Ladies, the latter of which saw Cope training alongside David Seaman, and being coached by Bob Wilson.  Her achievement in winning the League and FA Cup double with Arsenal in 1995 was repeated in 2000, this time with Croydon Ladies.

Inducted into the National Football Museum in 2008, Cope was presented with her award by then England manager Hope Powell, who described her as "a tremendous presence in goal for England.

"She had no fear, which is a great attribute. But there was more to her goalkeeping than courage; she also had great ability in terms of positioning and shot-stopping. As a character in the dressing room, she was very competitive, and she had a huge influence on the side."

Clubs: Millwall Lionesses, Arsenal Ladies, Croydon / Charlton Athletic Ladies
Caps: 60
Honours: 3 Premier Leagues, 4 FA Cups, 3 League Cups
Inducted: 2008