Introducing this years Rising Stars of Women’s Football, in collaboration with Miss Kick.
With the Women’s World Cup currently taking place and record viewing figures globally, we wanted to shine a light on some of the talented female athletes here at Soccer Assist.
These athletes are all taking the ‘unconventional route’ to the top by leaving their friends and families and crossing the ocean to play at college in America.
This year we linked up with Miss Kick, a female led football clothing and sports brand based in Northwest England. They exist to ensure every female has the opportunity to benefit from the physical, psychological and social rewards the game can offer.
Miss Kick pride themselves on putting her first in football and creating products that break down barriers to sport participation. This includes lifestyle, training and teamwear products.
First up we caught up with 16 year old centre-back Emie Ramsell, currently playing for Watford Ladies.
Emie will be heading to college in America on a soccer scholarship in 2025.
First of all Emie, why America?
I’ve always wanted to travel and play football in a different country, but seeing the success of the U.S. Women’s National Team has inspired me.
Soccer Assist are partners with the JPL Warriors, the league that I currently play in and I saw some information on their social media, so straight away I registered my interest.
So far I’ve attended a couple of showcase games (matches in which Soccer Assist collect video footage to share with U.S. Coaches) and I’ve met so many other girls all going down the same route, so it’s been really nice and exciting.
What are you most excited about?
Just college life in general. A change of lifestyle and culture as well as meeting new people.
What will you miss most about home?
The culture here too. I won’t be able to nip out to a chippy on a Friday night or enjoy a proper English fry up. I’ll also miss my mum’s cooking.
Who’s been your inspiration in football?
Virgin Van Dijk! All my mates say that he’s my look-a-like too. Being a Liverpool fan I don’t mind that too much. I mean he’s a great player and we play the same position.
From the women’s game it’s got to be Leah Williamson, captain and centre-back for Arsenal and the Lionesses.
I like to base my game on both these players. I’ve been described as a pacey defender. I do like to play out from the back too but I’d also say I’m a bit old fashioned in that I like to get stuck in and I’m not afraid of a hard tackle.
What’s been an obstacle or challenge you’ve had to overcome to get to where you are today?
I only recently started playing in a women’s team. I was in a local boys team in my area for seven years. It was hard moving on and joining an adult team. I lost confidence for a while, I didn’t think I would fit in and adjust or be able to compete.
It took a while but through hard work, building self confidence with the support of those around me I now love every minute of it.
How do you manage your time between education, football and a social life?
I don’t really have a lot of time to enjoy those three things. So yeah, it’s challenging but I do get things done. It’s about prioritising, I like to give myself breaks and time to myself. No point cramming everything in.
I like to be organised and scheduled. I know when it’s time to study and when it’s time to train. You can’t be afraid to sacrifice your social life at times. My advice is to take your free time and use it, don’t abuse it.
So what sacrifices would you say you have had to make to get to where you are today?
I also enjoy music and take some instrument lessons in my spare time. There have been times where I’ve had to give them up. Hobbies and other stuff have come second to my main passion – football! I’m sure it will all be worth it in the end.
How do you find the Miss Kick Training Wear? Do you find a difference between men’s and women’s clothing when it comes to training and playing?
With different body shapes I can see the need to have different fits. Personally I don’t mind wearing men’s training wear. Although I have to say, this is the first time I’m wearing the Miss Kick training shorts and shirt and it’s great. I feel very confident in it. I like the cut, plus in all the photos I’ve seen so far I think it looks really nice. It defines the femininity in a player but also shows that we still mean business on the pitch.
What is your ultimate goal in football?
I want to become a pro and make as much money as I can in the game. Liverpool is my team but I have to take it step by step and I’d love to play professionally for any team really.
Hopefully the U.S College route will help me achieve this. I look at players like Lucy Bronze and see how well she’s done, so that’s another reason I’ve decided to go down this route.
What advice would you give to girls looking to progress in football?
Keep going for as long as you enjoy it. Don’t force anything but keep pushing for as long as you can and don’t be afraid. There’s no harm in trying and the women’s game is growing so much that there is room for you!
Lastly, who’s going to win the Women’s World Cup?
England of course, I’m very confident we can do it!
GET 10% 0FF
As part of our collaboration, Miss Kick are offering Soccer Assist athletes and followers 10% off this Summer with the discount code MKSA10
*Discount is valid one per customer.
Miss Kick believe everyone deserves an equal chance to perform to their best, on and off the pitch. That’s why they donate 2.5% of every order to their charity, Miss Kick Foundation, who create free opportunities for girls to get involved in the game. They also co-ordinate a Community Programme which enables girls to make friends with others like them who share a passion for football across the world.
