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FOR THE LOVE OF THE GAME England star Rachel Yankey tells us what football means to her
For the love of the game
Celebrated former England and Arsenal footballer Rachel Yankey shared her thoughts of the Women’s Euro 2022 games and how the spotlight is increasingly focusing on the sport.
Rachel, who grew up in Queens Park and represented Brent in the London Youth Games, is passionate about supporting women in the sport.
“I’ve always enjoyed playing football. It’s an easy sport that anyone can join in and play. You only need a ball, a bit of space and a few people to kick about.
“I didn’t have any female role models, but I liked to watch
Ian Wright who played for Arsenal. I just wanted to run around the playground being Ian Wright.
“I’m excited that the Women’s Euros are coming to
Wembley. I played in 2005 when the country hosted the Euros, so to have the Women’s Euros in this country and the final in Brent is amazing.
“There has been a prominent shift in perception of women in the profession. It gets better every year but there’s much more to be done to help young girls feel inspired to play football and confident enough to join a club.
“As a kid, I dreamt of becoming a vet, but would have been a sports coach or PE teacher, if I didn’t become a professional player”.
Rachel Yankey
Kicking it big time
Wembley resident Sofyan Benguidair-Filali is an aspiring professional football player and growing Tik Tok star who has proved disability is no obstacle to success with the support of his social worker Richard
Sofyan, 14, discovered his love for football by watching Arsenal play. He dreams of following in the footsteps of Alexis Sánchez and Mesut Ozil.
At 10, he was diagnosed with synovial sarcoma, a type of cancer, in his right leg. Following unsuccessful treatment, Sofyan’s leg had to be amputated to save his life.
“I didn’t think I’d ever play football again after losing my leg”, said Sofyan, but his condition only spurred him on. “I saw amputee football on social media and thought; I can still pursue my dreams.”
He added, “I want to inspire other young people, if you try hard and don’t give up, anything is possible”. Sofyan hopes to play in professional matches and tournaments when he turns 16.
Sofyan’s social worker Richard got the ball rolling by getting in touch with the Arsenal London FC Amputees professional team. The coaches invited Sofyan to meet the team and were so impressed; they asked him to train with them every week.
Sofyan’s mum, Raoda Shah, said: “Richard is wonderful. He does everything with genuine passion and care. The opportunity with Arsenal has been a life-changing moment for my son. I will be forever grateful.”
Learn more about a career in social work visit www.brent.gov.uk/jobs
