Bristol Rovers FC Women's Players Inspire the Next Generation at Highridge United

Highridge United U-14 Girls welcomed three Bristol Rovers FC Women first-team players for a special visit, as Layah Douglas, Anais Trinci and Helena Costa spent time with the team sharing their experiences of football and their journeys within the sports industry.

IMAGE: 29.09.26 - Bristol Rovers FC women's player attend highridge united training

The Rovers players shared their experiences of their journeys into semi-professional football, the pathways they have taken within the game, and the opportunities available to young players looking to build a career in football and the wider sports industry.

The visit provided the young players with an opportunity to hear first-hand what it takes to progress through the game and the different pathways available to those who want to pursue a future within football and/or sport.

Sharing Their Football Journeys

Layah, Anais and Helena spoke with the girls about their own experiences of playing football, their routes into semi-professional football and the steps they have taken throughout their careers. The session also highlighted that there are a variety of opportunities within the sports industry, both on and off the pitch, and gave the players an insight into what a potential pathway within football can look like.

Having current first-team players sharing their experiences provided an important opportunity for the U-14s to ask questions, hear about the challenges and opportunities they have encountered, and learn from players who have progressed to the next level of the game.

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Getting Involved on the Pitch -

The visit wasn't just about talking football, with the Rovers players also getting involved in the practical side of the session. They helped organise and lead the team's warm-up before taking part in a shooting drill, giving the girls the chance to work directly with the players and put their advice into practice.

The session created an enjoyable environment for the U-14s while giving them the opportunity to develop their skills and gain an insight into the standards and expectations of football at a higher level - alongside the journey's of Layah, Anais and Helena.

Anais Trinci, ADDED:

“Really enjoyable experience. Discussing our experiences and their experiences in the game so far. Mentioned about my journey to now playing for Rovers and providing a role model for young girls within the city that want to pursue a career within football.”

Anais' comments underline the importance of opportunities like this, where young players can meet and learn from women currently playing at a higher level.

For the Highridge United U-14s, the visit offered not only a chance to develop their football skills, but also to see a potential pathway in front of them and hear directly from players who have experienced that journey themselves.

Highridge United would like to thank Layah Douglas, Anais Trinci and Helena Costa for taking the time to visit the team, share their experiences and help inspire the next generation of female footballers.

The club looks forward to continuing to support the development of girls' football and creating opportunities for young players to learn, develop and enjoy the game.

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