Recently, Leeds United Women's midfielder Alice Hughes made a surprise visit to one of the Leeds United Foundation's Girls Only camps.

Delivered by the Foundation, the camp held at Garforth Academy was open for all females of all abilities aged from seven to 15. The camps run across the school holidays and use sport to help the children develop their skills on and off the pitch.

Hughes got involved with the girls playing futsal, before hosting a Q&A to give the attendees, some of which were taking part in trials for the women's pathway shortly after, some advice on how to deal with the pressures of football.

To finalise her visit, the midfielder handed out participation certificates and medals to all participants, before having one-to-one chats with a handful.

Speaking after the session, Hughes said: "It's absolutely massive. There is a little bit more time during that half term and parents might have a little bit more time to get girls out and about to places where they might not normally be able to, so I think it is really accessible.

"It lets the club see a lot of talent, and I know I definitely saw some of that talent here today, so it's fantastic.

"When you think about the growth of the women's game I think there is so much to be said for accesibility and being able to see and aspire to people like you. The fact that the Lionesses are on TV, and the WSL, being able to see people that look like you has such an impact on young girls.

"For us as players to get down, I think it is massively important. One for us as it feels like we are giving back to the community, and it's great to be out and about but I also think it's brilliant for the participants because it shows them what they can aspire to be and to push for."

The Foundation are again running the camps in April in Leeds and Wakefield for seven to 14 year olds. Wakefield will host a camp on the 9th April, and Garforth will host from 7th to 10th April and 13th to 16th April.

The sessions are priced at £31.50 per day, or £107 for the full course.

Led by FA-qualified coaches, the sessions are backed with skill-building activities, small-sided games, and friendly competitions, designed to boost confidence both on and off the pitch.

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