Story added: 3rd August 2023
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.
20th August 2024
On Monday 19th August, children on our goalkeeping residential at The Nest were treated to a special visit from four Norwich City first-team 'keepers.
13th August 2024
Last week, The Nest played host to the return of the Canary Cup, with representative development teams from our fellow CCO's across the country all taking to the pitch for a shot at silverware.
13th August 2024
Four Norwich City Community Sports Foundation Girls' Academy Development Programme players recently joined Norwich City Women's first team.
26th July 2024
Manchester City and England forward Lauren Hemp returned to her roots to officially open The Lauren Hemp Community Pitch in Norwich today, named in recognition of the part she’s played in the huge success of the Lionesses.
When you donate a little each month, you will be helping to transform the lives of local people of all ages who need our support – giving them the opportunity to connect with others like them, feel happier and healthier in themselves, and raise their aspirations.
We have Soccer Schools running at venues across Norfolk & Suffolk, and whether participants are new to football, or are already a budding Canary superstar, the Soccer Schools programme has been put together to provide a fun, holiday activity at an affordable price.
As Norwich City Football Club's official charity partner, we help thousands of people every year achieve their goals through sport, supporting some of the most disadvantaged, disabled and talented people across Norfolk. Our vision is to support, inspire, and improve our community.
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