Our community | Women's World Cup 2023
Football is life: How Mercer is leading the bright future of the women's game
With the global excitement surrounding the Women's World Cup, we're all captivated by stories that showcase the profound impact of teamwork and determination.
Read ahead to learn all about Helen Brain's on-pitch performances and Vicky Cornwell's adventures in coaching. While you're here, catch up on this Q&A with Kelly Smith and our Women@Mercer Business Resource Group. Olé!
Helen Brain, Pensions Administrator – Senior Analyst, Bristol
My love of football started when I was a child, joining my siblings for games during school holidays. Sadly, there were hardly any girls' teams around when I was growing up, so it wasn’t until university that I finally found my place on an official squad. From then on, I was hooked!
Now, I get to fulfil my football dreams every week as part of Bristol & West Ladies FC. I've been with the team since 2002, serving as captain and playing in central defence. Our team competes in the Division 1 Gloucestershire County Women's League and our Sunday matches are the highlight of my week.
I love the atmosphere, camaraderie and thrill of the game! Off the pitch, I serve as the secretary of the Gloucestershire County Women's Football League, coach the Warmley Rangers U10s, which my son plays for, and am a council member of the Gloucestershire Football Association.
Pictured: Helen’s football team post match!
Being so immersed in the sport has led to some incredible experiences. In 2018, we won the FA Grassroots League of the Year, and Sir Geoff Hurst presented us with the trophy, and in 2022, I witnessed the Lionesses win the Euros at Wembley!
I’m super excited for the Women’s World Cup this summer and can’t wait to watch the skill and determination of the world's best female players, as well as the celebration of teamwork and diversity.
Vicky Cornwell, UK Wealth Risk Leader, Leeds
I started coaching football a year ago when my six-year-old twins' team needed a coach. As a lover of football, I couldn't resist the opportunity. Every Saturday I head to Tockwith Juniors to coach the under 7's team.
It's a beautiful village between Harrogate and York where I live, and being able to support the local community means a lot to me. I dedicate my time to coaching because I want to contribute to the growth of young athletes in our area and inspire them. Forming friendships with other coaches who share my love for the game has been an unexpected bonus!
Beyond Tockwith Juniors, I'm also involved in setting up new groups to develop young players in our local area. The young players, ranging from four to five years old, are eager to learn and grow in the sport and it’s been a joy to see their enthusiasm!
Pictured: Vicky’s team during their end-of-season celebrations.
Football allegiances can be strong, and my kids certainly didn't hesitate to pick their sides. Between their Man City-fanatic grandad and the team's recent success, the blue side of Manchester seems to have won them over. Coaching has not only allowed me to give back to the community but has also reignited my love for the sport.
These experiences have taught me the importance of fostering relationships, inspiring young talent and cherishing the beautiful moments that it brings!
Did you know?
- The first recorded organised women's football teams emerged in the 19th century.
- A new world record for women’s football match was set in Spain with 91,553 fans watching the match.
- Christine Sinclair of Canada currently holds the record for most international goals scored.
- 2022 saw a historic moment in US women’s football as the US women’s national football team secured an equal pay deal.
Contributor
Helen Brain Senior Analyst Mercer
Contributor
Vicky Cornwell Senior Manager - Quality Assurance Mercer
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