Monmouth Town Girls Under 12s football team were delighted this week when they received a very special visit from two professional football players, writes by Rebecca Stoddard

Ella Powell and Lia Cataldo, who both currently play for Bristol City and have both played for their national teams, came along to join the team at their training session in Monmouth. They took the girls through some training drills and offered plenty of top tips and coaching skills, before playing a friendly match with the whole team.

The team coach, Shane Dorrington, said, “Once the girls heard that they were being coached by a Welsh international Women football player all the girls were buzzing. They started with a Q&A, and then they put the girls through their paces. It was such a fun session and the girls felt immense pride that they had played alongside two Professional women footballers! It’s an experience they’ll always remember.”

Lexi Lowe, one of the Under 12s said, “It was great having Ella and Lia coach us. I especially enjoyed the drills and they were both so much fun in the match that we played together.”

The growth of girls’ football in Wales has seen thousands flocking to clubs and the Football Association of Wales (www.fawtrust.cymru) has a target of 20,000 girls playing football by 2024.

If your daughter/grand-daughter/pupil or friend would like to join a friendly, inclusive, local club, Monmouth Girls U12s (Year 7) meet every Tuesday evening and welcome new members.

No previous experience is necessary and it’s a fantastic way of keeping fit, having fun and meeting new friends.

Further details of this team and all other age groups can be found on their website www.monmouthtown.co.uk.