WITHIN THE U8 GIRLS TEAM AT EAST RIDGE FUTBOL CLUB, there is one player who is standing out for her maturity and determination that far surpasses her young years.
Player Spotlight player that her coach Josh Crawford speaks highly about as a young player rising through the ranks. “She will never quit,” Coach Crawford said about Ella. “Even in situations when she is outmatched, she only plays harder and fiercer.” Those qualities, along with her communication and ability to give directions humbly to her teammates, have seen Ella emerge as the unofficial team captain of the group. Despite her size and young age, Ella shows no shyness on the pitch when it comes to taking on her opponents. She is versatile on the field, but shows great promise in attacking positions and her ability to take on defenders 1v1. “She has an impressive package of mental and physical skills at a young age,” Coach Crawford says. “She can typically control the ball in any situation to navigate tight opposition to attack or be able to recognize the time to get back and make a critical stop.” Ella is clearly a player with a bright future in the sport. Along with her desire to learn more, she also has the most important characteristic—the eagerness and willingness to play. Ella does not let herself get knocked around on the field and spend time needing to come off. If she takes a hard foul, Coach Crawford says she gets right back up and will continue playing rather than coming off and having to sit on the bench. “I’m impressed at her grit, toughness, and determination,” he said. “She has had other great coaches in her short playing time, but our time together has been rewarding for me watching her grow as a player that is always ready to listen and learn.” Congratulations on your development Ella, and good luck in this and the next season!