BEATING BULLIES & Defying Odds

Soffia Kelly, The Local Barry Girl Destined for Football Stardom

What happens when your true calling and passion, becomes the brunt of hurtful jokes and painful name calling?

That was the reality for Soffia Kelly, who always had a passion for football having started at the tender age 5. Being a female in this sport was a challenge she fought and ultimately overcame.

Soffia from Barry has always had a love for football, starting at grassroots level within the boy’s game at her twin brothers’ team. Despite this love of the sport, Soffia has been bullied, called names, and discriminated against most of her school life for her love of the game. Many evenings she would spend hours alone, kicking a ball feeling isolated. The isolation failed to deter Soffia as her skills developed leading her to be invited to trial for the girls’ Wales South performance centre in 2017; Her family life took an unfortunate challenge when her mother, Soraya Kelly was diagnosed with breast cancer. Soffia felt unable to continue with the training and commitment, focusing on supporting her mother and family through this difficult time.

Inspired by her mother’s resilience, who thankfully beat cancer, Soffia worked hard to once again trial in 2021, securing her place in the new Elite Football Welsh Academy South regional squad.

After receiving her 1st international Welsh Cap last year at 14, Soffia has gone on to secure a place in all other international games.

As Soffia's mum Soraya Kelly puts it: "Soffia is a kind helpful young person who is always on hand to go that extra mile despite the challenges she has faced from an early age. She’s a role model in her community and continues to support community projects that help to make a difference." Soffia's reliant attitude to life is infectious added to her determination to continue inspiring other young girls like her who want to get into sport overcome barriers. As a result of her dedication and commitment to making a difference Soffia was honoured as a runner up at the Senedd October last year by Race Council Cymru for an award highlighting Soffia’s achievement both in sport and the community. And more recently nominated for the Principality Child Of Wales Awards 2023 for her spirit, determination and courage. Soffia has recently been selected to represent Wales against Portugal in the under 17's squad and will travel to Portugal later this month. Surrounded by lots of love from her family and friends, Soffia is determined to keep pushing her football dream and continue to help and inspire others.