For Lily Hewitt “Attitude will always win over skill” is her motto – especially when it comes to breaking into senior football.
Hewitt’s ambition was clear from a young age when she first joined Forest Green Rovers in October 2022, at only 13 years old.
Two years later, at 15, the young full-back has turned that early promise into tangible progress, making her senior debut in one of the most prestigious competitions in football – the FA Cup.
“I attended trials for the under 14s girls ETC (Emerging Talent Centres) and have played for FGR ever since.
“The quality of coaching we received meant technically we were as ready as we could be.
“My standout moment is my club debut which was also my FA Cup debut against Downend Flyers Women FC, where we won 6-1.
“The FA Cup is known all around the world so making my debut for FGR in that competition was extra special for me.”
Forest Green Rovers made history in the FA Cup, making it to the first round proper where they unfortunately lost to Dartford Women FC.
Hewitt further explained her step up into senior football and the challenges that came with it.
“For me the physicality in senior football was definitely what I noticed first, alongside the levels of professionalism and game management across the pitch, as I could clearly see the experience that these players had from years of playing senior football.
“There was definitely a level of pressure and nerves as I knew what was expected of me and the high demands of competitive women’s football,” Hewitt said.
The percentage of women’s football who progress into professional women’s football is very low with only 4% of academy prospects going on to play professionally.
But the young talent understands what it takes to become a professional player and is willing to work hard to get there.
Alongside her football commitments, Hewitt spoke on her life outside of football, “I currently study football at college, and I even work at Forest Green on a Saturday, meaning football is part of my life daily.
“However, allowing downtime outside of football is also very important as it allows me to spend time with family and my friends.”
Hewitt already has her sights set on what’s to come next, “My hopes are to be playing at the highest level possible, and it would be extra special if that could be with Forest Green Rovers in tier 3 in three to four years.”
FGR Women currently sit fourth in the South West Regional Women’s Football League with four games in hand.
As for advice to other young players chasing their dreams, her message is simple: “Turn up, work hard and never give up on your dreams.”
