Spurs Ladies Visit School
On the 9th February, two footballers from the Tottenham Hotspur Ladies team, Shakira Whaite and Kelly Smith, along with their coach Ben Hunter, paid a visit to the school.
The trio visited primarily to celebrate the school's Girls' U11's team success this season that has seen the team reach the final of the Waltham Forest phase of the London Youth Games. In a thrilling final, the Chingford team were beaten 3-0 by St Joseph's.
Shakira and Kelly answered some of the children’s questions in an interesting assembly. Furthermore, they presented some of the school footballers with certificates. Two children (Jack and Maisy from Year 6) were also lucky enough to receive a Tottenham kit from the players in recognition of their efforts and attitude this season.
Many thoughtful questions were asked by the pupils and were mainly based on a woman’s perspective on football. Queries were submitted on everything from match day attendances at women's football matches to the training methods used for these skilful players.
We found out that whilst women’s football is very similar to the men’s game, there are major differences when it comes to money - the main one being that men earn far more money than women footballers - many of whom have to work part time to support themselves.
Year 6 pupil and member of the U11's team, Ria commented, "I really enjoyed the assembly as it was inspiring for me to meet some female footballers in the flesh."
