Recently, I caught up with Watford and Wales legend Helen Ward. Speaking to the newest member of Cymru’s 100 cap club we discussed her career. As well as the impact of growth in women’s football. Here is what she had to say!
Q) Your career began when you joined Watford at nine years old. How does it feel to now be playing, and captaining the first team?
It feels incredible to be the captain of the club I love. I grew up a Watford supporter and for a long time, Watford was all I knew in football. I have had amazing experiences away from the club but in my heart, it was always where I wanted to be and I’m grateful for the opportunity the club gave me to return in 2017
Q) During your journey, you’ve had a period away from the Hornets. Where you played for Chelsea and Arsenal. How different were the set ups there, compared to what you were previously used to?
At the time, moving away anywhere was always going to be different but by going to Arsenal, I went straight to the top and where the likes of Vic Akers was transforming the game almost on his own. We had use of the training ground, use of the first team bus. Little things like that which just didn’t happen at most clubs (and still doesn’t at some now) and it was an eye opener. Chelsea was similar and the training ground at Cobham is phenomenal but even so, both sides have moved on even further and created bespoke areas for their women’s teams which is part of the reason that they are both so successful now
Q) This season we’ve seen an increase in attendances at women’s matches. What impact do you believe this will have for younger players?
It’s always lovely to play in front of a crowd and I think having young girls at games in particular is brilliant. They are the ones we want to inspire so having them there and watching us live amongst decent crowd numbers will hopefully be the thing that drives them on to make their own careers and fulfil their dreams. If they can see it, they can be it
Q) Alongside your club career, you’ve played a hundred times for wales. How special has this been? And is there anything in particular you believe helped you on the international stage?
It’s almost unbelievable to think I’ve played 100 games when you consider I didn’t make my debut until I was 22 and I’ve also had 2 children! But it is the biggest thing through my career that has spurred me on through the tough times to keep going. Representing my country means everything and the friendships I’ve made and the places it has taken me to are things that can never be replaced. It’s been an honour and a privilege to pull that shirt on every time and I hope there’s a few more still to come. My family have been massive in allowing me to play for Wales, particularly since having the kids as they rally around and make sure they’re looked after while I’m away for a week to ten days at a time. I have everything to thank them for
Q) Finally, the next Euros will be held in England. What impact do you believe this will have?
I think the Euros being held in England will have a hugely positive impact on the women’s and girls’ game. The tickets are selling so fast and to have it here and accessible to so many will hopefully inspire the next generations. World Cups and European Championship years always give the game a boost so to have it on our doorsteps will surely be absolutely massive for the growth of our game.
Thank you to Helen Ward for the amazing opportunity to interview her. I’d like to wish her luck for the rest of the season, and the future. A true Wales great. Cymru’s greatest ever player.
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