Wolves Women midfielder Summer Holmes compares her start in football to what she experiences today as she steps out in the Old Gold.
STARTING OUT
First team
I think I would have been about seven, I have always loved football and I used to play with my brother and dad all the time. My first game was for the Wolves Academy, I do not remember when exactly, but they were the first team I remember playing for.
First ground
I was playing in the youth league with Wolves. The pitches were usually like parks or playing at schools, the facilities were not great, but it was not the worst.
First icon
My first idol was Steven Gerrard, I loved how he played and the fact he knew how to score a goal always made him such an exciting player to watch.
First challenge
Personally, I have not experienced any barriers, I know quite a lot of players have, but in my case not really. The girls were always allowed and given a chance to play football in school, I always felt included.
Progression
It has progressed so much, you can watch women’s football on TV, the Women’s Euros and even other games are packing out full stadiums and people can even buy season tickets for the women’s game now. It has really come along so much since I was younger.
CAREER
Best moment
Probably winning the league or getting promoted to the Northern Division. Winning the league felt so special due to the performances throughout the season and getting promoted is always a special feeling so getting promoted to the Northern division means a lot too.
Best result
The cup final against West Brom, it is always nice to win a trophy, but beating Baggies to do it makes it feel even better. Coming back from 1-0 to win just capped off what made it such an amazing game to be a part of.
Best opponent
Manchester City, without a doubt. Their team has so much quality and it is clear to see why they are one of the best teams in England.
Best stadium
It would be Manchester City as well. I remember we played at their Academy Stadium at it was a great stadium, especially for where we were, and the pitch was amazing.
Advice
To just keep working hard, there is a lot more opportunities now compared to when I was younger so just do not stop working, get as fit as you can and do as much training possible. Do not forget to keep practicing, there is so much opportunity now that you will be rewarded if you put the hard work in.
