[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhUTlw_ac74&feature=youtu.be]
In this incredibly moving video (we were all close to tears watching it!), England and Notts County forward Jesse Clarke spoke about her journey leading up to the Women’s World Cup 2015.
She also has stated that England “stand every chance” in the tournament due to take place this summer.
“I wouldn’t say my route into football was the easiest, I was brought up in a one parent home and from a young age I struggled to get to games” said the Cyprus Cup winner who is on the ‘Road To Canada’, supported by Continental Tyres.
The 25 year old Olympian, set to claim her 50th cap when England play China on Thursday April 9, has come a long way since her initial introduction to football:
“My Mum would be working and couldn’t come to pick me up. I didn’t want to ask anyone for help because I was embarrassed so sometimes I’d hide away, make sure everyone left, then go and catch my bus home.”
After a tough start to her sporting career, Jess soon blossomed and secured her England debut against South Africa in 2009, aged 19.
“If you want something, no matter what, you’ll get it. It’s just about believing in it and putting in the groundwork to get there. It’s setbacks that truly make you the person you are. They define you and spur you on to be, not only the best athlete, but the best person you can be too.” – Clarke
Jess has been named in the England squad to face China at Manchester City’s new Academy Stadium in the team’s final home match before this summer’s tournament. England’s Lionesses are expected to be on top form having recently won the Cyprus Cup after a tense final against Canada.
“The pinnacle for me is representing my country and each cap makes me hungry for more. I’ve always felt like my Mum sacrificed her dream so that I could live mine, I think that’s why I’ve got that desire and that hunger. You have to create your own luck and I think if we do that then we stand every chance of winning the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2015.” – Clarke
Come on Jess, and go team England girls!
