To Becky Langley and Newcastle United Women,
Thank you for showing us that ambition goes far. For showing us that, with hard work and determination, we can do whatever it is that we want to do- not only in sport, but in achieving our own goals. There may be difficult times, there may be bumps in the road, but the most important thing is dusting ourselves off and owning our experiences.
Thank you for highlighting the power of friendship and camaraderie between women; for showing us that we don’t always have to be competitors, that we don’t always have to compare ourselves, and that we often achieve more when we work as a team. We can build each other up, spread positivity and celebrate one another, whilst also honouring our own accomplishments- this extends to every aspect of our lives, and is a lesson which is incredibly valuable.
Thank you for proving once again that there is no such thing as a ‘men’s sport’; for every little girl who didn’t have the option to play football in PE, for every little girl who wasn’t allowed to play with the boys, you have shown that this is and always should be an option. So many of us have experienced judgement or labels, and you show up for us with every single match you play. Things are changing, and I know that we still have a long way to go, but we appreciate you all.
Thank you for your hard work this season, on and off the pitch. For showing strength and drive, for never giving up. For so many of us, it’s more than goals; as amazing and exciting as they are, Newcastle United Women as a whole provides a much-needed spotlight. From St James’ Park to trophies, you have allowed so many of us to feel seen. In a male-dominated game and profession, you have represented women and girls in a way which has been truly superb.
From every little girl sitting in her black and white stripes, as I once was- thank you.
