April 9th 2024.
Demi Stokes grew up in a world where the idea of a parent pushing their child to become a footballer was all too common. She remembers seeing parents on the sidelines yelling aggressive comments at her opponents, and even witnessed dads shouting things like "Kick her! Break her legs!" at the opposing team. This kind of behavior was not only unpleasant, but also dangerous. It's no wonder that some leagues have had to issue codes of conduct for parents to follow, in order to prevent arguments or physical fights.
But Demi, now 32 and a star player for Manchester City, is determined to change this narrative. She believes that parents should focus on their child's happiness and confidence, rather than pressuring them to become the next big football star. Demi herself played on an all-girls team in an all-boys league growing up, and she knows firsthand the challenges and prejudices that girls face in the world of sports.
For Demi, sports should be a safe space for children to express themselves and build confidence, rather than a place where they feel pressure to perform. She credits her former PE teacher, Ian Williamson, and her mother and grandmother for giving her the support and encouragement to pursue her dreams, even when faced with ridicule from boys who didn't believe girls could play football.
Now, Demi is a successful player for Manchester City and has represented Team GB at the Olympic Games. She is also part of the Lionesses team that won the Euro 2022 crown, ending a 56-year wait for a major international honor. But even with all her achievements, Demi never could have imagined where her love for football would take her when she was just a 10-year-old girl with a David Beckham poster above her bed.
Demi is proud to be part of the growth and progress of women's football, and she believes that the opportunities for young girls today are more exciting than ever. She is also excited about the launch of Kellogg's Football Camps, which aim to provide a safe and inclusive space for children to play and improve their skills. Demi knows that not every child has the support of parents or teachers, and she hopes that these camps will give them a chance to express themselves and grow in confidence.
Demi's story is a reminder that with hard work, determination, and a supportive community, anyone can achieve their dreams. She hopes to inspire young girls to pursue their passion for football, and she believes that if we all play our part, women's football will continue to grow and thrive.
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