Why joining Phoenix is the best thing I’ve done

I was super nervous to rock up to the first free session having never played football properly before – I didn’t know what to wear, I didn’t know a single person going and I accidentally arrived an hour early (just to give myself plenty of time to get nervous!). I think it says a lot about the team that on that first training session it absolutely chucked it down with rain and I got soaked through to my pants… and yet I still came back!

I have never started something new and felt so welcomed.

Every single person took the time to introduce themselves, chat with me, and offer me tips and encouragement. It’s the most supportive and uplifting environment. I think it’s rare to find a sports group where there aren’t cliques and hierarchies, and I feel so grateful to have been welcomed in by such a warm bunch. What’s particularly lovely is that I’m pretty terrible at football [Editor’s note: she isn’t!] and am still heartily welcomed! 

Another great thing about Phoenix is the coaching and the guidance. I started out with no idea what I was doing. I still don’t get the offside rule (classic!) and I’m often the wrong side of the player I’m marking, but there are amazing coaches and more knowledgeable, experienced players to help me learn in a no-pressure environment. It really is a space where anyone with a sense of “I’d like to give it a go” can come along and try it out alongside veteran players. The training nights are so much fun and give time to practice skills and get to know the rules. The flexible approach is great too – you can come along to training when it works for you, and it’s totally up to you if you want to play in matches. For me, football has become a great way to stop thinking about work and my to-do list, and to just have a laugh and play. It’s also a great commitment to exercise! I was worried about my fitness levels before I went, but there is a massive range of fitness and abilities, and I think that makes the group even more inclusive. 

The other thing I really like about Phoenix is the off-pitch camaraderie. I really appreciate that everyone is kind to the opposition in matches. I’ve been to a watch a few Phoenix games and there is such a warm, friendly spirit, celebrating everyone’s strengths on and off the pitch. Whether it’s side line celebrations, a pint (or water) in the pub, or lift-shares – the welcoming, inclusive energy is everywhere. The team also does a few opt-in socials too, so if you’re looking to find a new bunch of pals while getting fit I cannot recommend Phoenix enough!

I’m aware that a whole post cheerleading Phoenix might sound a bit too positivist and unbelievable, so I will just add this: sometimes the weather is terrible, sometimes you mess up and sometimes you get injured! But for me, playing in the driving rain, accidentally helping the other side score a goal and even breaking my wrist haven’t held me back! Instead, I’ve become weirdly obsessed with football and want to get better to support this amazing team.

If you even have a little curiosity about what this Phoenix thing is all about, come along! You will be welcomed with open arms, and possibly get hooked like I did…