Back in early April 2023, we were just days away from our first taster session for Future Lioness. Final preparations were taking place with equipment being counted and checked, orders for kit were being placed and session plans created. Fuelled with optimistic ideas and a positive mindset, we were excited to finally get started. We can now safely say, with our taster sessions and first full training blocks completed, our vision has truly come to life. Although we felt quietly confident that there would be some interest in what we had to offer, we have been blown away by the incredible response we have had. To see so many girls attend each week, eager to learn and progress, socialise with their peers and show everyone that THESE GIRLS CAN has been truly joyful! And wow, these girls REALLY can!
Having had Mia Enderby (formerly of Sheffield United and now signed with Liverpool FC) join an earlier training session, we were then lucky enough to have our Future Lioness Ambassador Jade Pennock (of Birmingham City FC) join us for training in June. Not only did Jade join in with the session, she held a Q&A with our lionesses, providing an insight into her experience and route into becoming a professional footballer; from playing grassroots football to undertaking a soccer scholarship in the US, paving the pathway to signing a professional contract. We wish both Mia and Jade every success in the upcoming season!
During our second summer training block we had guest coach Chloe Bellerby join us. Having previously played for Harrogate Town Ladies before undertaking a soccer scholarship in America, Chloe has openly shared and spoken publicly about her own mental health struggles. Now aiming to raise awareness on mental health problems, Chloe directs her efforts tirelessly into being both a campaigner and advocate. Without doubt her strength, bravery and positivity in the light of adversity are remarkable.
We are extremely grateful for the support we have received from the local community. Future Lioness is proud to be a family-run business, which we hope comes across with the values we promote amongst our players and the way we manage and operate all areas of the PDC. We truly value forging relationships with the local community. Pete Egerton from Your Harrogate has been a fantastic cheerleader for this venture, helping to spread the word about Future Lioness! Pete popped down to training and had a chat with Chloe, Jade and Future Lioness Co-Founder/Head Coach Jon Maloney - you can check out the podcast here.
Mia, Jade and Chloe personify our mantra of ‘Dream Believe Play’ and we are keen to continue to provide our girls with the opportunity to meet such role models, who have achieved great success both on and off the pitch.
With the FIFA Women’s World Cup underway, girl’s and women’s football are certainly registering high on people’s radars at the moment. Whilst endeavouring to support the lionesses of the future, we are wholeheartedly rooting for our England Lionesses as they strive for World Cup success. Regardless of how far they progress in the competition, they will undoubtedly continue to inspire and motivate the next generation of female footballers.
Discussing the progress so far and upcoming plans back in the Future Lioness Den, a common theme is what an amazing attitude each player displays each week, and our excitement about what the future holds for them. We are unbelievably proud of all our Future Lionesses and look forward to this roaring adventure continuing!
If you are interested in joining us for weekly training, you can find more information about our upcoming Autumn sessions by following the 'sessions' link on the main menu.
But first, it is almost time for some Future Lioness Summer Camp fun! If you are looking for an action-packed, football-filled activity for the summer holidays...this could be just what you need!
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