CHLOE Woolaway is proud of how well Southend United’s ladies side have performed this season.

But the attacking midfielder is already hungry to achieve even more success next time around.

Woolaway was voted the Shrimpers’ player of the year after producing a number of impressive displays in the centre of the park.

And the 27-year-old is delighted with how well Lewis Dodds’ side have done.

“For me personally I’ve really enjoyed this season, especially as it’s been my first full season at the club,” said Woolaway.

“It has been a mixed bag of results, however to hopefully finish second in the league having been promoted last year is something we are all really proud of.

“We would have liked to progress further in the cups but it gives us something to work towards next season.”

Blues finished runners up to Watford’s development side in Division One South of the Eastern Region Women’s Football League.

And Woolaway believes it is a huge achievement for the Shrimpers.

“Finishing second is amazing considering this is our first year in this league,” said Woolaway.

We’ve had our fair share of challenges throughout the season but to finish the season beating top of the league Watford has proved that we can compete with the top sides.”

Woolaway has played a huge part in that happening with her own displays.

But she was still shocked to be named player of the year.

“It really came as a surprise,” said Woolaway.

“Unfortunately I wasn’t able to make the awards evening as I’ve been away on a family holiday, but to wake up to the news that I had won Player of the Year is something I’m really proud of.

“I’d like to thank Shrimpers Trust for the recognition and I hope that I can continue to perform for the club in years to come.”

Justin Rees, who heads up the consortium looking to take control of the club, has also been hugely supportive of the ladies’ side throughout the second half of the season.

And Woolaway admits having the Australian involved has been a huge boost for Blues.

Justin has been such a huge support already in the time he’s been here and is our number one fan,” said Woolaway.

“Having him come to not only our home games but some of our away games as well shows how supportive he has been and as a team we look forward to working with him to put Southend United ladies on the map.”

But the team are also keen to do that with their performances on the pitch and Woolaway is hopeful of a push for the title next term “I believe we can,” said Woolaway.

“We have such a strong squad that we are hoping to bolster over pre-season and now we have proved we can compete in this league, that motivates us more to work hard for each other and go for the title next season.

“Hopefully we can have a good cup run as well.”