Little Things

Chapter 38

Sunday 22nd January 2023
Bella POV

I could feel the buzz and excitement in the air as I joined Leah's family at the Emirates Stadium. Despite the formidable opponent, Manchester United, Leah and the girls played well. The energy and heart put into the game was unmatched, clinching N a remarkable 3-0 victory. Myself and Leah's family cheered loudly, the pride I felt when watching Leah on the pitch was out of this world. Witnessing the joy and celebration that erupted around me was incredible. The win was not just a game triumph, it was a personal victory for Leah - having been out with injury, I couldn't be more thrilled to see Leah playing the full 90 again. 

Monday 23rd January 2023

As I walk in through the school carpark early this morning, I felt nervous. The incident involving Lucy still very much playing on my mind.

As I entered the building, I knew today was more than a normal Monday morning. I knew that Jess was going to have a meeting with Matt and I knew that I had to tell Jess about Leah's idea. I also knew that Jess would support Leah's idea and that she would be just as excited as Leah and I are.

As I walked down the corridor, I saw Jess was already in her office, I knocked on the open door lightly, catching Jess's attention. "Morning Bella!" Jess said, a smile on her face. "How are you?" "Good morning Jess, I'm good thank you. Are you ready for today?" I asked.  "As ready as I'll ever be. I just wanted to apologise that this has happened to you Bella. I value you so much and I'm really disappointed in Matt." Jess sighed.

"No, don't you say sorry. This isn't  your doing. On a positive note, I spoke to Leah." Jess nodded at me. "She wants to come in  and talk to the staff." I said. "Wonderful news!" Jess replied. "She also suggested that her and some of the Arsenal players come and run a weekly football workshop for the children. She wants the children to understand the importance of gender equality too. It was her idea." "Bella, that's quite an offer. Leah and the Arsenal women's team would bring a lot of expertise and, hopefully inspire our kids and staff. It sounds like a powerful way to challenge some of the outdated attitudes and show our children that football like any sport is for everyone." Jess confirmed. " Yes exactly Lee believes and I agree that this is not just about learning to play football. It's about building community where everyone feels valued and equal no matter their differences. The only time it'll be interrupted is if they have to travel away for matches. She has assured me she will sort everything out today and I can confirm with you tomorrow?" " let's do it. I want you to take the lead on this Bella. Organise a meeting with Leah and any other key players from the team who want to be involved. We will get a detailed plan drawn up on how these workshops will be structured and how they will align with our national curriculum and educational goals. " Thank you Jess and thank you for believing that we can make a real difference here. It's a shame it's this incident this to get to this point."

Shortly after I left Jess's office I thought the weight of responsibility settle on my shoulders not just for my peoples but the broaden mission of equality and respect in school. This was my chance to help reshape the communities outlook with the backing of some of the most talented athletes in sport they rode ahead would be challenging but with Leah and the teams support I was ready to lead the charge into a more inclusive future.

As soon as I enter my classroom, I knew I needed to speak to Leah. My heart rate is excitement as I dialled Leah's number, the screen of my phone a blur of anticipation. When Leah answered my words tumbled out in a joyful rush. "Leah, Jess loved the idea! She's given us a green-light for the workshops, and guess what? I'm leading the project!" I could barely contain my elation, my voice and make sure of pride and gratitude. Leah's response was an eruption of cheers and congratulations that warmed me even through the phone. "We're really going to make a difference, Leah. I can't wait to get started with you in the team. I continued, the future sudden looking brighter and feel with possibilities, our shared vision for change and now set into thrilling motion. "Of course now this could be possible without you babes! I can't thank you and the girls enough for supporting this." "I love you B, see you when you're home."