Published on 28 November 2022
Congratulations to University of Sunderland honorary graduate Jill Scott MBE who has been crowned Queen of the Jungle in this year's final of I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here!
The former England footballer, who retired in August following her team's historic victory at the European Championships, beat politician Matt Hancock and Hollyoaks actor Owen Warner in the grand final on Sunday evening after surviving 23 days in the Australian camp.
Jill was made an honorary graduate of the University back in 2018 when she received her award at the Stadium of Light.
Growing up in the city, Jill was a keen long-distance runner, winning the under-13s cross-country title for Sunderland Harriers, and the Junior Great North Run – but she was also beginning to make her mark as a player for Boldon Girls.
Jill studied for a Foundation Degree in Sports and Exercise Development at Gateshead College, and went on to study at Loughborough University. She balanced her academic career with her growing reputation as a footballer.
She began her senior career with Sunderland Women, winning Women’s Player of the Month aged only 18. Jill then joined Everton Ladies, and despite her first match ending with a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal Ladies, she was named FA Tesco Player’s Player of the Year in 2008.
In 2013 Jill joined Manchester City, helping them secure the Continental Trophy in 2014. Her success in club football has been matched by her international career, in which has shown flair and leadership throughout her career playing for England.
Jill made her debut for England as a senior in 2006, having captained the under-19s side for the previous year and a half.
Over the next 15 years, she would go on to receive well over 100 caps for England and play a key role in transforming the public perception of the women’s game.
Congratulations Jill, our new Queen of the Jungle!