Norfolk women's footballer says the game's going from strength to strength

It's as England play their first game of the Women's World Cup today

Lauren Hemp
Author: Sian RochePublished 22nd Jul 2023

A young footballer who comes from the same Norfolk town as Lioness Lauren Hemp says the women's game is going from strength to strength.

It's as England play their first game of the Women's World Cup today, kicking off against Haiti at 10:30am BST.

Rio Dobbie is from North Walsham: "Football in general means a lot to me. I've played since I was eight years old, so about eleven years now.

"Women's football, specifically, is massive for girls and women across the country. It's meant a lot to me because it makes me want to be myself, I don't have to think about anything.

"I can enjoy it, play with my mates and watch it on TV."

She told us there have been lots of changes since she started playing the game: "For grassroots football, there's a much bigger crowd - more people want to watch me play.

"For the women's team, publicity has grown massively. People watch on TV and the stadium attendance is increasing.

"I'm so happy to see it!"

"It makes me want to be myself"

Rio said it's particularly inspiring to see the success of Lauren Hemp, who's from North Walsham too: "It's amazing, I love it.

"She's my brother's friend so I've known her for a long time.

"Even though I'm younger than her I've seen her grow massively.

"I'm quite proud of her, actually!"

Finally, of the Lionesses' chances of winning the tournament, Rio's felling confident: "There are a few injuries, which is a shame, but I do think they have the players and the confidence to make it all the way."

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