An Open Letter from Leah Williamson
To the Head Coach, Our Fans, and the Entire Football Community
Dear All,
It’s not often I sit down to write a letter like this, but after everything we’ve experienced together—the highs, the setbacks, and the moments of pure joy—I felt it was time to pause and share some words that come straight from the heart.
I want to start by saying thank you.
To our head coach, thank you for believing in me—not just as a player, but as a leader. Being given the armband was one of the greatest honours of my life, and with it came a responsibility I have never taken lightly. You challenged me to grow, to rise, and to lead not only with strength but with compassion. Every decision, every session, every game plan has been part of a greater vision, and I’ve seen firsthand the hours you put in behind the scenes. Your passion is contagious, and your trust has shaped me into a better player—and a better person.
To my teammates, you are the reason I give everything I have, every single time I put on the shirt. This team is more than just a group of athletes—it’s a sisterhood. We’ve laughed until our stomachs hurt, cried in each other’s arms after tough losses, and stood shoulder-to-shoulder in moments of triumph. I’ve learned something from every single one of you, whether you’ve just earned your first cap or played your hundredth. The standard we set for each other is high, and that’s what makes this team special—we demand the best from ourselves because we know what we’re capable of.
To the fans, thank you. For every flag waved, for every song sung, and for every word of encouragement—whether in the stadium or from halfway across the world—your support lifts us up more than you know. You are part of this team. When we walk out onto the pitch, we carry your voices with us. I’ve seen little girls in the stands wearing our shirts, eyes wide with dreams of one day playing for England or Arsenal, and I think: this is what it’s all about. You remind us why we started, and why we keep pushing forward.
To the young players coming through the system: keep dreaming. Keep working. You are the future. I was once in your shoes, wide-eyed and full of ambition, watching the likes of Kelly Smith and Faye White, daring to imagine myself in their place. Now, I stand here as someone who wants to make sure the path is clearer, more supported, and even more inspiring for you. Never forget that you belong here.
To the medical and support staff, you are our unsung heroes. This past year, I’ve learned that recovery is not just a physical process—it’s emotional, it’s mental, and it requires a team of people who genuinely care. You walked with me every step of the way through injury and rehab. On the days when I couldn’t see the finish line, you reminded me why I fight. Thank you for your tireless dedication to helping us be the best versions of ourselves.
And to the entire footballing community—thank you for being part of a movement that is so much bigger than the game itself. Women’s football is growing because of all of you. You show up, you speak out, and you believe in us. We are not just changing the perception of what women can do on the pitch—we’re rewriting the narrative of what leadership, resilience, and excellence look like.
When I look back on these past few years—from lifting the Euro trophy to watching the game reach new heights—I feel a deep sense of pride. But I also feel an even deeper sense of motivation. There is still so much work to do. More battles to fight. More young girls to inspire. And more trophies to chase.
I write this letter not as a farewell, but as a reaffirmation. I’m still here. I’m still hungry. And I’m still committed to giving everything I have for the badge, for my teammates, and for the future of this beautiful game.
Let’s keep pushing. Let’s keep dreaming. And let’s keep building something unforgettable—together.
With all my heart,
Leah Williamson
