Earlier this week, 25 players from Bromley Belles took part in an experience of a football life time when they visited St. George’s Park, home to all the England Football Teams, for a fun filled mini England training camp. 

The Belles, Bromley FC Community Sports Trust women’s recreational football team, were lucky enough to experience this exclusive opportunity thanks to Belles, midfielder, Brigitta who won the prize after entering the team into an England Football competition. 

Nerves were visible amongst the team when they arrived at the world class performance facility in Staffordshire, but as soon as they met the coaches, that quickly turned to anticipation and excitement.  

The team had access to areas and opportunities that are normally reserved for the likes of Leah Williamson and Millie Bright as the coaches took the Belles through a day in the life of an England International.  

The players took part in a tour of the National Football Centre where all of England’s recent trophies are on show from Para Football to Youth World Cups. This was then followed by a visit to all the areas that the England teams use while on camp showing an insight into how the team prepare for games including the Lionesses Euro winning final against Germany in the Summer.  

Prepping in the new England ‘Boot Room’, where the players proudly wore their new Belles shirts, they then took to the pitch where they enjoyed a 90 minute training session.  

If the day could not have been any more inspirational, some of the Belles were even lucky enough to bump into England Lionesses Manager and Euro Champion, Sarina Wiegman for a quick photo. 

Our Women and Girls’ Development Officer, Andrea Ellis said, “This has been a truly inspirational day. Not only visiting these amazing facilities but being part of this team. There are several women here today that six months ago had never kicked a ball, and to now play at the home of the England Teams is amazing. We are very proud of projects like the Belles and our Football for Absolute Beginners (FAB) and want to continue giving women of all ages an opportunity to play football”. 

Belles player, Helen added: “When I began this journey three months ago, aged 47, and having just watched the Lionesses win the Euros, I never envisaged having a training session at the home of English football. It was an amazing experience to have the tour and train where the national teams train. Thanks again Bromley Belles for the continued opportunities you create for us”. 

If you are inspired to play women’s recreational football with the Bromley Belles, or would like to find out more information please contact our Women and Girls’ Development Officer Andrea Ellis at andrea.ellis@bromleyfc.co.uk. We run a range of sessions for all women, regardless of age or previous experience.