Kelly Smith helped the Gunners to 20 major trophies since her arrival in 1996 and played a vital role in the quadruple winning season of 2006–07, scoring 30 goals in 34 games across the four competitions. She was an inspiration not just to her team mates (and us at She Kicks) but to thousands and thousands across the UK and further afield and tributes flooded social media and covered websites and sports pages as fans, players and journalists said: #ThankYouKelly
Arsenal say that in her 20 year playing career, Kelly established herself as one of the finest players in the women’s game. She was shortlisted for FIFA Women’s World Player of the Year award four times and won the FA Player of the Year award twice.
She is England Women’s team’s all-time leading goal scorer and was recognised for her services to women’s football when she was awarded an MBE in 2008.
Kelly had this to say on her retirement decision:
Winning the 2016 FA Cup at Wembley was the most glorious way to complete my career. It was always going to be tough for me to stop playing but I feel now is the right time. I’m formally announcing my retirement from football.
I started at the age of 8 playing on local boys’ teams; I moved on to Watford Ladies; to Wembley Ladies; and then Arsenal Ladies. Along with the clubs I played for in the USA, I’ve gathered a treasure trove of lessons and memories.
I’m excited to confirm my next step, which will see me take up a full time coaching role within the club. A fantastic opportunity to pay back the club I love, and to nurture the next generation of female football talent.
To mark Kelly’s retirement there will be a celebration game on Sunday 19th February at Boreham Wood FC, to thank her for her incredible contribution to the club, with Arsenal taking on a star-studded team of past and present players from around the world.
Ticket Details:
Date: February 19, 2017 – 2pm kick-off.
Location: Meadow Park, Boreham Wood FC, Broughinge Rd, Borehamwood – WD6 5AL
Price: £6 for adults and £3 for concessions*
* – There will be an early bird offer of ‘kid for a quid’ up until January 31
To have a chance to recognise Kelly’s incredible career and to see some of the best players in the game, buy your tickets by clicking here.
Please note that this game will be digital sale only. Tickets are not available from the box office and there will be no ‘pay on the day’ at Meadow Park.
(Source / Photo – www.arsenal.com)
