Latest news with #EveryoneNeedsaSquad
Daily Mirror
5 days ago
- Sport
- Daily Mirror
England legend gives key advice on how to stop Sweden star's 'superpower'
Kelly Smith was part of the England squad which reached the final of Euro 2009 and has worked with some of Sweden's biggest quarter-final dangers as an Arsenal coach The Euro 2025 quarter-final between England and Sweden carries a strong Arsenal flavour. Lionesses captain Leah Williamson will be going up against club colleague Stina Blackstenius, while there are several other current and former Gunners on both teams. All this makes Kelly Smith brilliantly placed to assess the threat of Peter Gerhardsson's side. Former England striker Smith is part of Arsenal's coaching staff, working day-to-day with the likes of Williamson and Blackstenius, and also played with England's captain when the pair were at opposite ends of their careers. "There's a lot of pressure on Leah, being England captain," Smith tells Mirror Football, describing Williamson as a "very intelligent" person. "The responsibilities that she has with the media and outside stuff, she's got to galvanise the squad and keep them together. "Obviously there are other leaders within that set-up, but she's very outspoken and not afraid to give her opinion whether it's positive or negative. You want someone who's going to bat for your team like that and she's certainly got all those attributes to lead the country and hopefully beat Sweden tonight" Sweden go into the tie off the back of three straight wins in the group stages. And, while England will need to stop striker Blackstenius, there could well be danger from elsewhere too. "You have to possess the ball so Sweden don't hit you on the counter-attack and play long balls over the top into space in the channels for Stina, because that's her superpower," Smith adds. "Running in behind, timing her runs. Obviously she's so quick that it's hard to keep up with her if Sweden get those opportunities to play those long balls. "But Sweden have other threats too, they're very good at set pieces with [former Arsenal pair] Amanda Ilestedt and Lina Hurtig. Very dynamic in the air, good and strong, so England will have to watch out for set pieces and not give too many free-kicks or corners away because Sweden are very good in those areas." Smith is speaking via EE, whose 'Everyone Needs a Squad' campaign aims to help girls across the country build confidence and belonging on and off the pitch. While the impact of the Lionesses' 2022 Euros triumph has been plain to see, with fans kitted out in England shirts all over Switzerland, the former striker is keen to emphasise that - while some things have got easier in women's football since her childhood, others are now tougher. "After 2022 there was a lot of uptake of girls playing football, and this campaign is to highlight the benefits of football, building resilience and confidence in young teenage girls," she says. "Because in this day and age with social media and the pressures of it, it helps build skills to protect them against [those] pressures. "I know when I was growing up, obviously social media wasn't around then but football gave me so much belief within myself, happiness, confidence, resilience. It's a team sport so you're working together for a common goal to try and win games or just having fun with your friends. It really build up my confidence, because I wasn't the most comfortable and didn't really have a lot of friends so football enabled me to have a football family, so to speak, and it really built my confidence up as a young kid. So I was grateful to be a part of this everyone needs a squad campaign because it's vital that girls are involved in football - it gives you so much." Some of England's players at Euro 2025 have spoken about how important their bubble has been when it comes to staying focused on the task at hand, and Smith recognises different players will have different approaches. "Some players I know take themselves off social media for those six weeks that they're away, four weeks or however long they're in the tournament and get their management team to do it," she adds. "When I was playing, it wasn't prevalent. It wasn't there. The back end of my career it was, but I think I was old enough and mentally in a better place then. It's a harsh world now and it could really affect you if you're not strong enough mentally. So football gives that escape and confidence for young girls and and women on social media.." Kelly Smith is supporting EE's 'Everyone Needs a Squad' campaign to help girls across the country build confidence and belonging on and off the pitch. For more information visit Additionally, the campaign includes the EE Squad Socials. Taking place at locations across the UK, (Brighton 19th July and London Sunday 27th July) the events provide a vibrant space for teenage girls and their families to play, connect, and celebrate self-expression through football.
Daily Mirror
01-07-2025
- Sport
- Daily Mirror
Lioness legend urges more girls to get involved in football for key reason
A new study has found that teenage girls who engage with football are more likely to be confident and better equipped to deal with negative online experiences than their peers A Lionesses legend who netted a remarkable 46 goals for England is championing new research that suggests girls involved in football are 'more confident' and better prepared to handle 'negative experiences' online. As the UEFA Women's Euros approach, ex-leading scorer Kelly Smith is passionately encouraging young girls to get involved in the beautiful game. The 46 year old started playing at just 17 and with 117 caps for her country under her belt, she fully understands the significance of football in fostering resilience of both mind and spirit. She expressed how her "football network allowed me to sustain confidence and resilience" while acknowledging her "football family" for their support in letting her "be herself" during her youth. Smith's remarks coincide with research from EE – the UK's network provider and leading partner of the Home Nations Football Associations. The report surveyed two sets of teenage girls aged 13 to 18 years old, those active in football and those who weren't. Among those engaged with the sport, 93 percent said it increased their confidence. Two thirds said playing football strengthened their emotional resilience and helped them deal with negative online experiences. They also felt more at ease discussing social media pressures with their family and friends. By comparison, those who didn't play sports admitted that social media had reduced their self-esteem. Meanwhile, 44 percent said that social media impacts their confidence. The survey forms part of EE's 'Everyone Needs a Squad' campaign. To support young girls, the British network giant has introduced an online resource named EE Squad. It offers routes into local football opportunities, confidence-building content via EE LearnSmart and personal stories from Home Nations players Smith, who is championing the campaign, said: "Football gave me absolutely everything growing up. I wasn't a confident or outgoing person off the pitch, but as soon as I was playing, I could be myself and show what I could do; it was where I felt most comfortable. "The online world was very different back when I was starting out, but I've seen the pressures social media puts on young people now." "Being part of a community is so important when it comes to building confidence and the resilience young people need to navigate the world," Kelly added. "For me, there's no community more powerful than the football family, and I really hope as many girls as possible get to feel a part of that." EE collaborated with adolescent psychologist, Dr Sheila Redfern, PhD, who helped devise the research approach. She commented: "In recent years, we have seen an increased spike in the mental and emotional health of adolescent girls, which has been exacerbated due to increased exposure to the online world." "Adolescence is a time of significant developmental change," she added. "The study clearly shows that being in the football community can improve adolescent girls' self-esteem and confidence at a time in their lives when they are most likely to doubt themselves and compare themselves unfavourably to others." Sarina Wiegman's Lionesses kick off their quest to retain their Euros title when they face France on Saturday.
Scotsman
30-06-2025
- Sport
- Scotsman
EE reveals the uplifting power of football on teen girls' wellbeing
Over 9 in 10 teen girls say the sport makes them 'more confident' and able to deal with social media pressures Sign up to our daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to Edinburgh News, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... With both England and Wales preparing for the summer tournament in Switzerland, new research from EE – lead partner of the Home Nations Football Associations – reveals the powerful off-pitch benefits of the game: strengthening teenage girls' confidence at a time they need it most. More than ever before, social media presents a challenging landscape for teen girls with associated problems including the pressure to maintain a curated online image, the possibility of cyberbullying, and decreased self-esteem. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad In research* carried out by EE in partnership with leading child and adolescent psychologist Dr Sheila Redfern PhD, findings show that being part of a football network – whether through a local team, casual kickabouts or an online community – significantly reduces the negative impact that social media and the online world can have on teenage girls' self-esteem and confidence. EE's Everyone Needs a Squad The data shows that 93% of girls who are part of a football network report feeling more confident, with over two thirds (69%) saying it gives them a sense of belonging. In contrast, of those girls who do not watch or play football, two fifths (44%) say social media has affected their confidence, while one quarter (27%) of respondents admit it has reduced their self-esteem. Girls who are involved in football are also more likely to develop strong emotional resilience (66%) than their counterparts (49%), with nearly three quarters (72%) well equipped to cope with negative online experiences. Three fifths (61%) of girls who watch or play football also say they are comfortable confiding in friends and family over social media pressure. The study surveyed two groups of teenage girls aged 13-18 – those engaged in football networks and a control group who were not. All participants were asked the same questions exploring their relationship with social media, their self-perception, and their emotional resilience. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The data reveals a clear pattern: girls involved in football communities demonstrate stronger emotional resilience, more positive peer relationships, and a greater sense of self-worth. EE's Everyone Needs a Squad Dr Sheila Redfern PhD, who co-designed the research methodology, commented: 'Adolescence is a time of significant developmental change; including neurological, psychological, physical and social changes that shape long-term wellbeing. In recent years, we have seen an increased spike in the mental and emotional health problems of adolescent girls which has been exacerbated due to increased exposure to the online world." "The research carried out by EE has produced some important and striking results, shining a light on how being part of the football network can benefit teen girls' wellbeing and promote resilience (good mental health). The study clearly shows that being in the football community can improve adolescent girls' self-esteem and confidence at a time in their lives when they are most likely to doubt themselves and compare themselves unfavourably to others.' To further bring these findings to life, EE has enlisted the support of England legend and mum of two, Kelly Smith, to share her own experiences of being involved in a football community and how it can help young people navigate the complexities of the online world. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Kelly Smith, scorer of 46 goals in 117 appearances for the Lionesses, and mum of two said: 'Football gave me absolutely everything growing up. I wasn't a confident or outgoing person off the pitch but as soon as I was playing, I could be myself and show what I could do; it was where I felt most comfortable. "The online world was very different back when I was starting out, but I've seen the pressures social media puts on young people now. Being part of a community is so important when it comes to building confidence and the resilience young people need to navigate the world. For me, there's no community more powerful than the football family, and I really hope as many girls as possible get to feel a part of that.' The research forms part of EE's Everyone Needs a Squad campaign, which sees players from across the Home Nations and grassroots footballers feature in content showing how confidence and community can be built through football. As part of this, EE has launched a bespoke online platform called EE Squad, which helps teenage girls explore, build and grow their community around football, particularly in an online world where girls are often exposed to negativity. The platform offers routes into local football opportunities, confidence-building content via EE LearnSmart, and personal stories from Home Nations players sharing how football has shaped their confidence, resilience, and sense of belonging – on and off the pitch. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Alicia Simai-Kral who plays for Highbury Wolves Girls and features in EE's 'Everyone Needs a Squad' campaign said: 'Football has always been my escape from the pressure of social media. Playing with girls' teams gave me the confidence to be myself, online and offline. It's where I've felt supported, not judged and that's made all the difference.' Kelly Engstrom, Brand & Demand Generation Director at EE said: 'As lead partner of the Home Nations Football Associations, we recognise the power of the football network and its potential to make the world a better place. We know growing up in an online world brings unique challenges and we are passionate about showcasing how this sport can help build young girls' confidence. 'Everyone Needs a Squad' highlights how we are doing more for families by supporting young people's wellbeing and helping them navigate the online world with positivity. We hope that this campaign will empower young girls on and off the pitch and inspire them to get involved in the beautiful game.' Sharon Tuff, Football Association of Wales' Chief Commercial and Engagement Officer, said: 'At the Football Association of Wales we see first hand the transformative power football has. EE's research echoes what we witness across the nation, that football is more than a game, it's a powerful tool for improving wellbeing and creating a true sense of community. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'We know that the impact of Cymru's historic qualification to UEFA Women's EURO 2025, will be felt far beyond the pitch. For young girls across the country, the visibility of our Cymru players and the celebration of their journey is a source of inspiration, proof that they belong in the game and that their voices matter. 'We're proud to work with EE to celebrate the welcoming space football offers, where girls can thrive, whether on the pitch or through life. We look forward to the legacy this summer will create for future generations.' Everyone Needs a Squad is part of EE's ongoing mission to use the power of connection for good, especially for young people as growing up with phones gets harder. As excitement builds for another summer of football, EE is using this moment to launch a wider call to action: encouraging girls across the UK to find their team, step onto the pitch, and discover the game-changing mental boost that football can offer. This latest initiative builds on EE's broader commitment to supporting young people's wellbeing. Last year, EE launched age-specific smartphone guidance to help parents navigate healthy tech habits, recommending simpler devices for younger children and promoting gradual, responsible smartphone use as they grow. Alongside this, EE expanded its PhoneSmart platform to equip both teens and parents with the tools and knowledge to stay safe and confident online. To discover more, please visit
Scotsman
30-06-2025
- Sport
- Scotsman
EE reveals the uplifting power of football on teen girls' wellbeing
Over 9 in 10 teen girls say the sport makes them 'more confident' and able to deal with social media pressures Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... With both England and Wales preparing for the summer tournament in Switzerland, new research from EE – lead partner of the Home Nations Football Associations – reveals the powerful off-pitch benefits of the game: strengthening teenage girls' confidence at a time they need it most. More than ever before, social media presents a challenging landscape for teen girls with associated problems including the pressure to maintain a curated online image, the possibility of cyberbullying, and decreased self-esteem. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad In research* carried out by EE in partnership with leading child and adolescent psychologist Dr Sheila Redfern PhD, findings show that being part of a football network – whether through a local team, casual kickabouts or an online community – significantly reduces the negative impact that social media and the online world can have on teenage girls' self-esteem and confidence. EE's Everyone Needs a Squad The data shows that 93% of girls who are part of a football network report feeling more confident, with over two thirds (69%) saying it gives them a sense of belonging. In contrast, of those girls who do not watch or play football, two fifths (44%) say social media has affected their confidence, while one quarter (27%) of respondents admit it has reduced their self-esteem. Girls who are involved in football are also more likely to develop strong emotional resilience (66%) than their counterparts (49%), with nearly three quarters (72%) well equipped to cope with negative online experiences. Three fifths (61%) of girls who watch or play football also say they are comfortable confiding in friends and family over social media pressure. The study surveyed two groups of teenage girls aged 13-18 – those engaged in football networks and a control group who were not. All participants were asked the same questions exploring their relationship with social media, their self-perception, and their emotional resilience. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The data reveals a clear pattern: girls involved in football communities demonstrate stronger emotional resilience, more positive peer relationships, and a greater sense of self-worth. EE's Everyone Needs a Squad Dr Sheila Redfern PhD, who co-designed the research methodology, commented: 'Adolescence is a time of significant developmental change; including neurological, psychological, physical and social changes that shape long-term wellbeing. In recent years, we have seen an increased spike in the mental and emotional health problems of adolescent girls which has been exacerbated due to increased exposure to the online world." "The research carried out by EE has produced some important and striking results, shining a light on how being part of the football network can benefit teen girls' wellbeing and promote resilience (good mental health). The study clearly shows that being in the football community can improve adolescent girls' self-esteem and confidence at a time in their lives when they are most likely to doubt themselves and compare themselves unfavourably to others.' To further bring these findings to life, EE has enlisted the support of England legend and mum of two, Kelly Smith, to share her own experiences of being involved in a football community and how it can help young people navigate the complexities of the online world. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Kelly Smith, scorer of 46 goals in 117 appearances for the Lionesses, and mum of two said: 'Football gave me absolutely everything growing up. I wasn't a confident or outgoing person off the pitch but as soon as I was playing, I could be myself and show what I could do; it was where I felt most comfortable. "The online world was very different back when I was starting out, but I've seen the pressures social media puts on young people now. Being part of a community is so important when it comes to building confidence and the resilience young people need to navigate the world. For me, there's no community more powerful than the football family, and I really hope as many girls as possible get to feel a part of that.' The research forms part of EE's Everyone Needs a Squad campaign, which sees players from across the Home Nations and grassroots footballers feature in content showing how confidence and community can be built through football. As part of this, EE has launched a bespoke online platform called EE Squad, which helps teenage girls explore, build and grow their community around football, particularly in an online world where girls are often exposed to negativity. The platform offers routes into local football opportunities, confidence-building content via EE LearnSmart, and personal stories from Home Nations players sharing how football has shaped their confidence, resilience, and sense of belonging – on and off the pitch. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Alicia Simai-Kral who plays for Highbury Wolves Girls and features in EE's 'Everyone Needs a Squad' campaign said: 'Football has always been my escape from the pressure of social media. Playing with girls' teams gave me the confidence to be myself, online and offline. It's where I've felt supported, not judged and that's made all the difference.' Kelly Engstrom, Brand & Demand Generation Director at EE said: 'As lead partner of the Home Nations Football Associations, we recognise the power of the football network and its potential to make the world a better place. We know growing up in an online world brings unique challenges and we are passionate about showcasing how this sport can help build young girls' confidence. 'Everyone Needs a Squad' highlights how we are doing more for families by supporting young people's wellbeing and helping them navigate the online world with positivity. We hope that this campaign will empower young girls on and off the pitch and inspire them to get involved in the beautiful game.' Sharon Tuff, Football Association of Wales' Chief Commercial and Engagement Officer, said: 'At the Football Association of Wales we see first hand the transformative power football has. EE's research echoes what we witness across the nation, that football is more than a game, it's a powerful tool for improving wellbeing and creating a true sense of community. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'We know that the impact of Cymru's historic qualification to UEFA Women's EURO 2025, will be felt far beyond the pitch. For young girls across the country, the visibility of our Cymru players and the celebration of their journey is a source of inspiration, proof that they belong in the game and that their voices matter. 'We're proud to work with EE to celebrate the welcoming space football offers, where girls can thrive, whether on the pitch or through life. We look forward to the legacy this summer will create for future generations.' Everyone Needs a Squad is part of EE's ongoing mission to use the power of connection for good, especially for young people as growing up with phones gets harder. As excitement builds for another summer of football, EE is using this moment to launch a wider call to action: encouraging girls across the UK to find their team, step onto the pitch, and discover the game-changing mental boost that football can offer. This latest initiative builds on EE's broader commitment to supporting young people's wellbeing. Last year, EE launched age-specific smartphone guidance to help parents navigate healthy tech habits, recommending simpler devices for younger children and promoting gradual, responsible smartphone use as they grow. Alongside this, EE expanded its PhoneSmart platform to equip both teens and parents with the tools and knowledge to stay safe and confident online.
