Not long after QPR Women’s match against Harlow Ladies, I caught up with star striker Lily Bruno. Discussing her journey into the sport and the growth of women’s football. Thank you to her for answering my questions, and I wish her all the best in the future.
Q) Currently playing for Harlow Town Ladies, you compete in tier 4 of the women’s pyramid. How did your journey in football begin?
I started playing from the age of 7, I was constantly being dragged to my older brothers’ games and thinking it was just a normal thing to do! I found that I preferred playing football at break times with the boys instead of more girly things. My old PE teacher actually asked me to go train for his boys’ team and that’s where it all began!
Q) During that journey you’ve featured for a range of clubs. Who is one person that had had a positive influence on your career?
I’ve learnt a lot in football. I’ve learnt who to trust and who to take with a pinch of salt. I believe there were people that tried to make me someone I wasn’t. Tried to change my game and didn’t let me grow. My current manager is the complete opposite. He takes the time to understand me and my game and uses it to my strengths. Ruudy has been a positive impact not just on my football but on my life, my mindset is switching on and off the pitch and for that alone it speaks volumes to me.
Q) Whilst making your way through your career you had a spell in the USA. What is one thing you learnt during your time there? And is there anything from America you’d like to see implemented in the uk?
I learnt that you have to trust your gut. Accepting that something might not be working for you takes so much strength and I don’t think people really understand the dynamics of it. Not seeing it as a failure is something that I struggled with most, but now I realise that if something truly is meant to be for you then it will feel right. I would love to see the facilities implemented into the UK. The stadiums and sports locker rooms were just amazing. It made you feel truly valued and worth something.
Q) As we approach the summer talk of the women’s euros increases. How do you believe this will impact the game, and the support teams receive on match days?
Football in itself is massive but in the women’s game it really is making a statement. I think the younger generations truly love having someone to look up to. Someone that makes them feel comfortable in their own skin. Seeing those girls and boys happy during this period is just amazing to see. It proves that children don’t need to just watch men’s football but they can watch both and still be inspired to follow in their footsteps.
Q) This season has seen an increase in attendances at women’s matches, and media coverage for fixtures. How important are supporters at this level?
Support is massive at this level; I believe that having someone that supports you and has your back only makes you want to do well for them. Having a crowd of people that want the best out of you and your team gives the team that boost that they may have been missing. The supporters are a shoulder to cry on and a helping hand when needed. Supporters truly aren’t appreciated enough!
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