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31 July 2023

In Her Own Words – girls pathway player Z’el

In Her Own Words – girls pathway player Z’el

Z’el Jones, aged 12, is a player in our Girls’ U12 Advanced Centre. In her own words, she shared the story of her journey through the Foundation football pathway.

When I was younger, I never EVER liked football. My older brother used to force me to play ALL THE TIME.

So, a few years passed by, and I decided to try it out. I wasn’t in a football team for a very long time, but I had some training.

Eight months later, in 2021, my dad took me to a football club called Hastings United that was just training at the time. They didn’t have a team there, then four months later, they had a good amount of girls for a team.

So, we had a game one Sunday, and won 11-0. I was very happy to score five goals in that game. And that’s where I started… My mum took me to a Brighton training session in Falmer, and I was there for about three months.

Then I was invited to go to the Advanced Centre, to have a trial. My mum didn’t tell me it was a trial though, so, when we got there, it was just matches. Not long after, Mum made me read the email, I was REALLY HAPPY that I was invited to join the pathway!

I really love seeing the Women’s First Team and the Under-21s train – especially when the Albion girls have soccer school days and they sign our stuff. The training is also very good and fun!

When I first went there, everyone would ask how I was and what my name was. I love it there, because we get good training, the coaches make it SUPER fun and everyone there is very friendly and welcoming.

My dream is to be a part of the girls’ academy. Football means A LOT to me, I love to practise with my brother, and, sometimes, by myself. I have learnt a lot of tips and tricks, which are helping me to improve!

I have a lot of fun with my mates! We laugh and play Chinese whispers, and a whole lot more! We also help each other when we don’t understand.

We encourage, support and never say negative things! I love my mates! I love FOOTBALL SOOOOO MUCHHHH!!! Thank you for inviting me!

Z’el Jones.

This programme is supported by the Premier League and Professional Footballers’ Association Community Fund.

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