Isabella Celebrates a Summer to Remember

We met Isabella, 9 years old, on 23rd July at a Kellogg's Football Camp delivered by Cardiff City FC Community Foundation at Cardiff City House of Sport. Despite being one of the only girls at the Cardiff site that day, nothing phased her. She showed confidence and resilience, putting her all into every game, tournament, and drill.

This summer, Kellogg’s Football Camps have provided families with more ways to keep their children active over the summer holidays, tapping into Britain’s love for the ‘beautiful game’, and making summer activities more accessible for young football fans across the England and Wales.

Isabella has grown up as a Junior Bluebird under the wing of her City superfan dad, Rob, a season ticket holder. She even basked in promotion glory on the pitch back in May when the Bluebirds returned to the Championship.

When Rob found out about the free Kellogg's Football Camp spaces, Isabella's dad couldn't think of a better opportunity for his daughter to learn new skills on the doorstep of Cardiff City Stadium while meeting fellow Bluebirds too.

To recognise Isabella's determination and courage at the session, the coaches selected her as their 'Player of the Week'. As a result, she won a mascot place at a pre-season friendly against Roma, giving her the chance to walk out alongside her favourite players and step onto the pitch as the club kicked off a brand new season.

When asked about the camp, Isabella said, "I LOVED it, all of the coaches were really nice and my favourite part was playing a tournament at the end.

Rob, Isabella's Dad said, "What a brilliant day and I can't thank Cardiff City Community Foundation enough for this opportunity for Isabella.

"She was beaming from the moment she woke up that morning. Getting to take penalties on the Cardiff City pitch, meet all of her favourite players and have selfies with them, then walk out with Cardiff City and a team like AS Roma has given her memories she will never forget.

"She can't wait to get back to school to show her photos in assembly!"

Cardiff City Soccer Schools give young Bluebirds, like Isabella, the chance to stay active, build confidence and develop their skills in a fun, inclusive environment.