Woodham embodies Reading FC Women as she is named club captain
“One day, who knows, I’d love to be club captain of this team.”
Just over 13 months ago, Lily Woodham extended her contract with the Royals, articulating her aspirations to someday lead the Royals onto the pitch wearing the captain's armband.
Today, it brings us immense joy to unveil Lily Woodham as the official bearer of the captain’s armband for the foreseeable future.
Having donned the blue and white hoops of Reading FC Women since the tender age of 18, making the transition from Bristol City, Woodham's journey has been one of growth, perseverance, and dedication, solidifying her position as a constant presence on the team sheet.
From her inaugural season in 2018-19, and with the passage of each subsequent year, we have witnessed her evolution, accumulating a total of 68 appearances over five seasons, a remarkable 47 of those appearances coming in the past two years alone.
As the club sets forth on a new chapter under the guidance of Liam Gilbert, Lily steps into the role of captaincy for the 2023/24 campaign. This milestone signifies not only her personal growth but also her embodiment of the values and spirit of Reading FC Women.
Woodham's journey from young prospect to captain exemplifies the club's commitment to nurturing talent, dedication to progress, and passion for the game. As she embarks on this new chapter as our captain, we stand united, ready to support her leadership and determination on and off the field.
With Lily Woodham at the helm, the Royals forge ahead with a renewed sense of purpose, embracing the challenges and celebrating the victories that await us in the upcoming season.
Woodham led the team out in our season opener away at Crystal Palace last Sunday, as the Royals secured their first point of the season in a 1-1 draw, with a goal from Cooper late on goal was ruled out moments before the end by Hughes.
This Saturday evening will be a special one for the Royals and Woodham, as she will lead the team out on home soil for the very first time this season as we host Charlton Athletic.
On being given the armband, Woodham said “It’s an honour to be trusted with the role of captain, I’m going to do my best for the girls both on and off the pitch, and hopefully learn a lot on the way.
“I aspire to be a captain that leads on the pitch, is always encouraging and fighting for the girls as much as I can.”
“I’ve learned a lot from previous captains, who were role models to me coming through Reading, and now it’s my turn to step up and step forward to lead the team out through every challenge that comes our way.
“I’ve represented this club for a long time now, I remember stepping through the doors on my first day, and now to be stood here with the armband, it’s a nice moment to start this exciting new chapter in my career.
“There are many emotions, pride, excitement, more determined than ever to fight, do well and represent the club in the best possible way, and I think with the girls we have here, it has the potential to be an exciting season.
“Walking out on Saturday, in front of our home fans, leading the girls out, it’s a moment I’ll treasure forever.”
Cheer home the Royals this Saturday
Saturday evening football at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, what’s not to love?
Secure a seat from £4 to mark Lily Woodham’s first home game as captain, and welcome back the Royals as we look to get our home campaign in the Barclays Championship off to the best start possible.
Visit the online ticket office below to get your tickets:
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