Norwich City Girls' Centre of Excellence is celebrating after its future was secured with a licence for the 2011-2012 season from the Football Association.

Centres up and down the country were forced to reapply for licences, with the current number of 50 being reduced to 30 for next season.

The process also gave clubs without a licence the chance to apply, making competition extremely tough – and while the Norwich centre has been successful, others in the region – including Ipswich Town's own girls' centre of excellence – have not been so fortunate.

The Community Sports Foundation has worked closely with Norfolk FA to ensure the Centre of Excellence met the necessary criteria.

Girls' and women's development officer for Norfolk FA, Darren Moss, said: 'I'm really excited…with so many female players in Norfolk, this will provide a pathway for elite players to progress and play at the highest level possible.

Football coach Emma Fletcher said: 'With the reduction in the number of licences awarded this season, to receive this news is fantastic.

'For players in our region who have ambitions of representing their country, the opportunity to showcase their talent and develop their game is crucial.'

The Centre of Excellence provides a platform for talented female players to achieve their goals and it is anticipated that the standard will improve yet again as the catchment area for the Norwich centre will now be larger.

CSF is looking for talented female footballers aged seven to 16 to offer the opportunity to attend Norwich City Girls' advanced trials. All trials will be held at Easton College over a number of dates.

For an application form for the trials, visit www.communitysportsfoundation.org.uk/downloads or call 01603 761122.

CSF is also offering a free under-9 girls-only taster session at its annual Summer Cup tournament.

The session will include fun football games and mini football matches, with the possibility of being selected for further coaching.