Her Eyes

1. Call Up

June 2022

Alexa's POV

As I swept my long brown hair into a ponytail I noticed in my reflection how it now had some golden highlights from all of the hot weather we have been having recently.

In fact, when I looked a bit closer I noticed my skin has bronzed quite nicely with freckles across my nose. One of the benefits of always being outside playing football I suppose.

My phone lit up with a text from my best friend Lottie letting me know she'd be picking me up in 2 minutes. I quickly chucked on some shorts, grabbed my sunglasses and head outside to meet her.

"Nervous?" Lottie asked as I climbed into her car.

"Hey mate, yeah, big day but I'm trying not to get my hopes up."

Today was the day .. the Lioness squad announcement for the 2022 Euros. Nervous was an understatement.
I was due to be part of the squad for the Arnold Clark Cup in February but had to pull out last minute due to an injury I'd picked up in training. I'd probably missed my chance, the squad is so competitive.

Lottie pulled me out of my thoughts. "Sarina would be stupid not to select you. You've been working so hard and you're the top goal scorer for Brighton!"

I play at Brighton and Hove and always have done. I grew up here by the sea with my family and I love it. I have always dreamed of getting the call up to the England Senior team, especially in time for a major tournament.

I smiled at my best friend trying to ease my worry "we'll see."

The morning went by quite quickly, we had brunch in a little cafe in the lanes and were wandering down on the beach when my phone rang.. 'Sarina Weigman' flashing up on my screen.

"Lott, LOTTIE it's her oh my god"

"Answer it mate, quick"
.........

"Hi Alexa, it's Sarina Weigman. How are you?"

"Ah good thanks, it's good to hear from you." I stammer out.

"I'm sure you're wondering what I'm about to say so I won't keep you waiting. I've been watching your performance closely in your recent games and have been really impressed. I'm happy to say you have been selected as part of the Euros squad".

"Oh my gosh, thank you so much!! I really appreciate you giving me this chance Sarina, I won't let you down." I say excitedly trying to regain my composure.

"I'm happy to have you onboard Alexa I'm sure you'll bring a great deal to the team. We are to meet at St George's Park this Thursday for the start of this camp. You will receive an email with further details."

"That sounds great I look forward to meeting you, thank you again."

.........

As we hung up the call I looked at Lottie with wide eyes.

"Oh my god you did it!!!" She screamed at me as we jumped up and down together hugging and ended up rolling on the beach laughing.

I immediately called my parents knowing how excited and proud they would be. I hear my little sister Mia squealing in the background as I tell them.

Wow this is really happening. I'll be playing with girls I've looked up to for years.. and now I'm going to meet them on Thursday.

Authors note:

Just a little introduction to Alexa for you - get ready for her to meet the team in the next chapter!