Until the age of 14, she played with boys. She started football at four years old and grew up an Everton supporter, yet chose city rival Liverpool as her first profesional club. Now, her shirt bears the Chelsea badge, and she’s a European champion with England. Niamh Charles and her story, in her own words:
- Niamh Charles began playing football with West Kirby Wasps in Merseyside from the age of four. Though initially hesitant—"I used to hold on to my Dad’s leg"—she quickly grew to love training, often extending sessions late into the evening.
- She played alongside boys until around age 13–14, a formative experience that helped her develop physical resilience and adaptability on the pitch.
- Raised as an Everton supporter, Charles switched allegiance to Liverpool once she joined their academy, cherishing the opportunity to wear and train in the Liverpool kit she grew up loving.
- Upon signing her first professional contract, she simultaneously pursued a sport and exercise science degree at John Moores University. Though challenging—often completing coursework after training—she valued how the degree aligned with her football development.
Discover her full story here.
