Celtic FC Women duo visit Stepps primary school | OneFootball

As the SWPL enters the business end of the season with the top-six split fixtures announced yesterday, two players from Celtic FC Women’s team paid a visit to Stepps Primary School, where pupils from both Stepps and St Joseph’s Primary came together to celebrate women's football.

Around 150 girls from Primary Three to Primary Seven gathered in the assembly hall to meet the two stars Adelaide Gay and Emma Westin.

The pair began by reflecting on their journeys in the game so far before opening the floor to questions. The pupils in attendance were excited and keen to learn, quizzing the players about their careers to date and what everyday life looks like as a professional female footballer in Scotland.

Winger, Emma Westin spoke to Celtic TV on the importance of visiting the local community to inspire the next generation of female footballers.

She said: “Today has been really fun. It was so nice seeing the girls here and seeing the smiles on their faces. Hopefully we’ve been able to inspire them to become footballers themselves.

“When I was younger, it wasn’t always easy to see women’s football on TV or even know that becoming a professional player was a possibility. So, for us to come here, speak to them, and show them that this is something they can pursue if they want to - that’s really important.”

Reflecting on the afternoon, Principal Teacher of Stepps Primary School, Cameron Galloway said: "Our school cannot thank the club and players enough for visiting the school.

“Adelaide and Emma's warmth and energy really made a connection with our pupils, a connection that has now inspired many of the girls to try football for the first time, whether playing or supporting.

"Women's football has a remarkable ability to build the relationship between players and fans, and this visit has started many girls on this journey of hopefully lifelong participation and support.

“Opportunities for girls in football are increasing rapidly, and Adelaide and Emma have given them such positive role models to emulate."

Goalkeeper Adelaide Gay also shared her thoughts on the visit and the passion for football displayed by the pupils:

She added: “This is one of the best groups I’ve ever seen. From minute one, the girls were completely locked in.

“They asked so many great questions, and you could tell they had a passion for life, not just for the game, which was really nice.

“We can talk about the possibility of becoming a professional soccer player, but I think it’s just as important to get people involved in the game and get them playing - because once you start playing, you never want to stop.”

Celtic FC Women would like to extend a sincere thank you to everyone at Stepps and St Joseph’s primary schools for the warm welcome and for hosting such a wonderful occasion. We look forward to welcoming you to a game at New Douglas Park soon.