The University of Warwick played host to an inspiring spectacle as over 150 girls from 20 professional football clubs across England and Wales showcased their talents in the 2023 Premier League Kicks Cup. Among the attendees was Liverpool Women's Super League star, Taylor Hinds, who electrified the tournament, offering inspiration and encouragement to the aspiring athletes.
The Premier League Kicks programme, renowned for using the power of sport to foster potential, saw more than 21,000 girls and young women participate in its football sessions and education workshops during the 2022/23 season. The recent tournament embodied this philosophy, exemplifying the growth and opportunities available to young women in the sport.
Taylor Hinds, Liverpool defender, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, saying, "The more the Premier League puts on events to bring girls together and highlight their ability and dedication, the more it gives participants the ability to feel confident and happy." She added, "Football is open to everyone regardless of their sex or gender."
For the participants, the tournament was about more than just competition. Mackenzie from Sheffield Wednesday emphasized the impact of PL Kicks sessions, stating, "You get to see people having fun and enjoying themselves, and that is what truly matters."
Leila of Hull City echoed the sentiment, highlighting the camaraderie and the sense of playing in a professional league. "It felt more serious and like I was playing in a professional league," she said. "We all truly enjoyed it, especially as we got to play together, as team-mates and as friends."
Dejaunel from Leyton Orient praised PL Kicks for its role in improving her football abilities, fostering socialization, and providing numerous opportunities. "My football ability has improved a lot because we do drills before matches as well," she said. "I've always wanted to become a footballer. PL Kicks will help because they have a lot of opportunities."
Nicoleta Bria, an organ transplant scientist and WSL assistant referee, emphasized the impact of such events in inspiring the next generation of female footballers. "These events truly inspire the next generation of women by increasing support and trust in themselves," she remarked.
Preston North End captain Abi, who scored the winning goal, spoke of the sense of togetherness and empowerment that comes from participating in PL Kicks. "Our team is just like one family and because we were the underdogs, it felt even better because we just kept fighting," she said. "PL Kicks is a community."
The words of those who attended resonated with the sentiment that PL Kicks is more than just football—it's a platform for empowerment, growth, and community. As Fern Whelan, former BHA WFC player and PFA Women's Football EDI Executive, noted, "With the Premier League Kicks programme, it's making that safe space, making it as inclusive as possible for girls to be able to come in and play, enjoy their football and potentially, if it's something they are talented in, they can continue and progress through the pathway, which is now a lot more visible for girls."
Indeed, the 2023 PL Kicks Cup not only celebrated the young female athletes' skills but also showcased the continued progress of women's football, giving a glimpse of the future that awaits these aspiring players.
