Player Focus – Lauren

Could you tell us when you first got interested in football?

Football has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember – one of my earliest baby photos is of me holding a tiny football! I grew up in a family of football lovers, so it was always something I was surrounded by.

As a child, I spent hours playing in the back garden with my sister and uncle, and those moments remain some of my fondest memories. However, since my school didn’t have a girls’ football team, I ended up playing other sports like cricket, swimming, and basketball instead.

Even though I wasn’t playing, my love for football never faded. Then, in early 2024, I found myself really wanting to give football a proper try. That’s when I came across an ad for With Unity, before it had even officially become With Unity. It felt like the perfect opportunity, even though I was nervous about joining with no formal playing experience.

Who has been the most influential person in your football life?

It’s hard to pinpoint just one person, as I don’t have a single footballing role model. But if I had to choose, I’d say Trent Alexander-Arnold. His composure on the ball, his vision, and the sheer precision of his passing are what inspired me to start playing as an adult. That being said, if he ever moves to Real Madrid, I will be heartbroken!

Beyond professional players, I have to give a lot of credit to our coach, Joey. From the very beginning, he helped me build my confidence, always encouraging us to give our best without any unnecessary pressure. I don’t think I would have improved as much as I have without his support, and I’m incredibly grateful.

I also find so much inspiration in my teammates at With Unity. Everyone is so encouraging, always willing to help our teammates. It’s a truly special team to be part of.

Is there any team that you support?

I am a devoted Liverpool fan! Growing up in Merseyside, my family was split, half supporting Everton, half supporting Liverpool, so my footballing loyalties were a bit uncertain at first. As a child, I used to watch Everton matches with my mum and Liverpool matches with my uncle, so I experienced both sides.

Eventually, though, my heart settled with Liverpool, nothing compares to belting out ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ at Anfield.

Can you tell us about your most memorable times as a With Unity player?

One of my most cherished memories as part of With Unity has to be when we played in the rain last summer. We were completely drenched, but there was something so freeing and joyful about it. We just embraced the moment and had an incredible time. It was one of those experiences that really stays with you.

My first real experience playing football has been as part of With Unity, and over the past year I feel like I’ve grown so much as a player. I’m excited to continue improving and learning.

What has been the best thing about playing as part of With Unity?

It’s been amazing to witness the steady growth of women’s football, especially as we take part in more tournaments and friendly matches. There’s such a strong sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among the teams, and the level of skill continues to rise.

While women’s football in Korea isn’t as prominent as it is in the UK, seeing more and more girls and women getting involved is truly inspiring. It’s something that genuinely moves me because I often think about how much I would have loved the chance to play as a child. Now, getting to experience it as an adult has been life-changing in the best way.

Being part of With Unity has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my time in Korea, and I truly hope that more women and girls can find the same sense of belonging and empowerment that I have through football.