To Arsenal Women, my amazing supporters, teammates, employees, and the global Leah community,
I am incredibly appreciative of all the people and communities that have helped, encouraged, and believed in me throughout the years as I think back on my football journey. This path has been molded by love, trust, resiliency, and unity, from my early days donning the Arsenal badge as a young girl with goals bigger than herself to representing club and country on some of football’s biggest platforms.
Thank you to Arsenal Women for being my home, my pillar of support, and the setting that fostered my development as a person and a football player. I was able to grow my skills, embrace the responsibility that come with representing something bigger than myself, and dream without fear thanks to this group. Every practice, every obstacle, every triumph, and every failure contributed to the development of the player and woman I am today.
I want to express my gratitude to my teammates, coaches, medical personnel, and everyone who works behind the scenes for their unending efforts and hard work. Football is never a personal accomplishment. Every player’s strength stems from the team spirit of those who put up endless effort around them. Your support, encouragement, and faith helped me get through uncertain times and joined me in celebrating victories.
There are no words to adequately thank the fans for their continuous support. You continually reminded me of the power of this sport, whether you were packing stadiums, offering support from a distance, or sending notes during trying times. Your devotion provided me strength at every stage of my career, and your passion fostered an environment where goals seemed achievable.
One of the greatest joys of my career has been witnessing the growth of women’s football, and I continue to be proud to contribute to a movement greater than any individual accomplishment. To the entire Leah community and supporters of women’s football worldwide, thank you for helping elevate the game to new heights. Your voices, belief, and advocacy continue to inspire generations of young girls to pursue football without fear or limitation.
Throughout this road, I have experienced joy, heartbreak, development, and perseverance, but one thing has stayed constant throughout every chapter: the amazing support system that surrounds me. I will always be grateful for that.
I am grateful for the supportive environment you have given me, which has helped me grow and enable me to live my ambition every day.
With unending gratitude and affection,
Williamson, Leah
