Spotlight – Meet Calli Weaver

Calli Weaver started playing football in our Girls Development Centre. Read about her journey.

Calli’s journey with the Trust began at the age of 9 just two years after joining her first grassroots football team. Calli was a participant in our Girls Development Centre where she developed some of the fundamental skills used in football in an environment where she made new friends and found enjoyment in the weekly sessions. Not only did Calli start playing football from a young age but she also began coaching too, having a younger brother allowed Calli to have the opportunity of coaching him and helping him develop his skills. Calli has continued to progress through our girl’s development pathway currently a participant within our female Post 16 Football and Education programme as well as playing for Brentford FC Women’s.

As part of our spotlight series, we asked Calli some questions for us to get to know more about her, read on to find out more.

Biggest sporting achievement?

I would say that my biggest sporting achievement came quite recently, as I joined Brentford Women’s B Team squad last season and during the opening game of the season I was able to score the opening goal. We also went on an amazing cup run which saw us beat a team two leagues above us in the final, which capped off a really positive debut season for me.

Idol/Favourite Player and why?

My footballing idol is Fran Kirby, not only is she an incredible player but she also showed me that size doesn’t limit a player’s ability and you can still reach the top level of the professional game.

What is the best advice that you ever received and would pass to the younger generations?

“Make yourself comfortable, with being uncomfortable”

What does inclusion mean to you?

To me, inclusion means creating a safe space for all people to be able to learn and grow, as well as enjoy themselves.

“Calli’s confidence has grown massively since we first met and it is a pleasure to coach her and see her represent Brentford Women’s. Calli is extremely hardworking which is evident in her school work, training and her willingness to learn within our coaching environments. She has already completed her EE Playmakers award and is looking to start the FAs Introduction to Coaching Football certification soon.”

Quote from Amber Lloyd our Female Football Development manager

Calli is continuing her education as well as developing her coaching skills by volunteering as a coach at our Girls Development Centre and Female Recreation Football sessions whilst completing the FA Playmakers certification and looking to complete the FA level one in coaching football. 

Thank you, Calli for taking the time to sit down with us and share your story.