Story added: 3rd August 2023

Lilah's Story

Ten-year-old Lilah epitomises the Foundation’s efforts to increase female participation in our various girls’ programmes through her incredible progress in such a short period of time.

Lilah’s first interaction with the Foundation came back in November 2022 at a multi-skills taster session delivered to over 200 pupils at a local school.

After enjoying the taster session, Lilah was keen to sign onto another programme. She was pointed towards our weekly girls-only football provision, Girls United. This programme allowed Lilah to play football in a fun and relaxed environment and receive coaching from some of her Norwich City Women idols, such as goalkeeper Bryony Williams.

A few months into Girls United, it became obvious that Lilah was talented and excelling in the current group. Lilah was subsequently invited to trial out of the Girls Development Centre programme – a programme for girls who have showcased impressive footballing talent.

Throughout the four-week trial, Lilah demonstrated her technical skills and strong motivation to succeed, which resulted in her being offered a place in our Development Centre where she has now been since February 2023.

Girls Football Coordinator, Rosie Filby told us:

“Since Lilah has been attending Girls United and our Girls Development Centre, I’ve noticed a marked improvement in her confidence and how she has developed friendships with the other participants.”

O’Shea, who coaches Lilah also reiterated her improvements in confidence by stating:

“The difference in confidence from the first session to the where she is now is vast. She’s really starting to shine in the group”.

Lilah is one of 34 girls who have participated in Girls United since its inception.

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