6 Fierce Footballers on Paving the Way for the Next Generation

SEEING IS BECOMING

Sophia Wilson (formerly Smith)
Portland Thorns FC, USA

“I think women’s sports is growing so much and getting to a place that it should have always been. But I’ve been lucky enough to grow up when professional soccer was always in a dream that I could have because there was a league for me to play in. I’m very fortunate. But even in the short time I’ve played professionally, I’ve seen so much growth, not just in women’s soccer, but also in women’s basketball. I mean, all, all female sports are getting more attention, more investment, more recognition, and I think it’s only the beginning, and that’s very exciting.

“I notice the rise in attention from fans in our home games. Match day in Portland is always electric. But I think that’s what makes it so special is it doesn’t matter if it’s just a regular season game or if it’s a championship game, the fans always show up. They have energy for 90-plus minutes. I’m honored to be a part of it and to be able to play in front of such an amazing crowd. The opportunities I have — with the Thorns, with the U.S. National Team — make me more than proud. I have the opportunity to show both young girls and young boys that they can have big dreams and they can become possible, just like they did for me.”

HONESTY LEADING TO CHANGE

Deyna Castellanos
Portland Thorns FC, Venezuela

“I think the exposure that we have right now is something that has helped the sport for sure. And not just football, but in women’s sport in general, I think, like, it could be even bigger, and I think we're gonna get there. Being with Athlete Think Tank has been an amazing experience every time because everybody has the confidence and encouragement to speak their mind about how women’s sport needs more support. You learn from everybody’s path and everybody’s past and future, and it’s something that is just very inspiring.”

FROM ROOTS TO ROLE MODELS

Patricia Guijarro
FC Barcelona Women, Spain

“I grew up in Collerense, a very humble place where I started playing with boys before transitioning to girls’ teams without knowing much about women’s football. That whole process of discovering the women’s game and seeing important athletes emerge from Collerense has been incredible. We’ve been fortunate to experience so much. I believe the humility I gained from growing up in Collerense has played a big role in shaping who I am today.

“Now, younger players have role models to look up to and players they can dream of becoming. When I grew up, I had Virginia Torrecilla nearby in Collerense, but I didn’t have many role models beyond that. Today, girls can feel much closer to us and dream of achieving what they see us doing.”

WITH ATTENTION COMES RESPONSIBILITY

Salma Paralluelo
FC Barcelona Women, Spain

“I think I’ve been fortunate to come into the game at a time when a lot of progress has already been made, thanks to previous generations of players who fought for those changes. It’s a more comfortable situation for me now, although there’s still a long way to go. I’m happy with the progress and proud that we’re finally getting the recognition we deserve. More people recognize you now. Honestly, I’m someone who enjoys having my own space, so I don’t love being in the spotlight all the time. But it’s something that comes with success, and I know it stems from something positive. I love how we keep pushing boundaries and striving for real growth in women’s football and sports in Spain. That collective drive is what excites me the most."

DRAWING SUPPORT FROM HOME

Naomi Girma
Chelsea FC Women, USA

“I think being from San Jose, a place with such a deep history in women’s football, shaped how I kind of view the game and how I just like to have fun and enjoy everything that I’m doing. And I think in, like, big-pressure moments as an athlete, I can go back mentally to where I started playing. It always makes me feel calmer and more in the moment. I know the city of San Jose is behind us as female athletes. We’re working hard to make the future be even better for the next generation.“

WATCHING THE FUTURE UNFOLD

Lauren James
Chelsea FC Women, England

“Growing up, I couldn’t watch women’s football as easily as I can now. I’m hoping that both girls and boys can watch me play and know that they can achieve the same things for their futures. Those that know me know I’m proud of being a Londoner. The city has been a huge part of my identity as a female footballer."