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Nottingham local, Aleeza, enjoyed the experience of a lifetime when she stepped onto the pitches at St George’s Park, the home of England’s national football teams, to take part in the Premier League Kicks Cup girls tournament.

Representing Nottingham Forest against players from across the country, Aleeza had the opportunity to wear the Forest badge with pride, follow in the footsteps of her Lionesses heroes, and immerse herself in the atmosphere of one of the most inspiring training grounds in world football.

Playing at St George’s Park, where England’s senior men’s and women’s squads prepare for major tournaments, gave the players a unique opportunity to experience an elite football environment.

Stepping out onto the same pitches as their national heroes can ignite ambition, build confidence, and inspire them to aim for the highest levels of the game.

For many, the tournament also provided the chance to test themselves against top-level opposition from across the Premier League and the English Football League, giving a real taste of elite competition while representing Nottingham Forest on a national stage.

The Premier League Kicks Cup is a celebration of the year-round impact of Premier League Kicks, a programme delivered locally by Nottingham Forest Community Trust.

The Trust runs free Kicks sessions five nights a week at venues across Nottingham city and county, giving both girls and boys a safe, welcoming and engaging space to take part in physical activity, develop their skills and make new friends.

Through football and social action projects, participants are supported to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and make positive choices that keep them connected, active and away from negative influences.

Aleeza said:

“Being at St George’s Park and playing on the same pitch as the England stars is an unreal experience. I’m so grateful.

“Knowing that this is where they train gives me such motivation. If they can do it and play here and I’m playing here now, maybe one day I could be in the same position as them. That would just be an amazing thing to do.

“When I see so many people from around the country playing here, I feel proud and so relieved as well that there’s other girls that want to experience it. I hope other people see this and see that the girls are serious too.

“There’s so much talent here and it’s an amazing thing to be able to be part of.

“At Premier League Kicks, all the girls and all of the coaches are so inclusive and welcoming. They just want you to enjoy yourself. They make every session fun.

“I will honestly treasure this moment for the rest of my life. It’s indescribable. Not everyone gets to do it, and if you do, you’re so lucky.”