After an impressive pre-season and ‘Player of the Match’ performance on her senior debut at our very first game,Rawlings was promptly promoted to the first team squad by the staff. Ever since, Katie (Katiesta) has been developing alongside her peers and demonstrating her fantastic ability to read the game.
As a student at our BTEC College programme, Rawlings continues to progress and is enjoying her opportunity to train every day with Bristol Rovers. We spoke to our young midfield maestro about her first season with the ‘Gas Girls’
GG: Katie, thanks for chatting to us today. When was the first time that you fell in love with the beautiful game?
KR: I’ve always loved football. Ever since I was five I always tried to get involved with tournaments in school. It wasn’t until
secondary school started where I really enjoyed it! I joined a team and ever since I’ve always wanted to play football outside
of my college or school life.
GG: When the ‘Open Sessions’ were announced for the brand new Bristol Rovers Women’s Team, what attracted you come along and try out?
KR: When I saw the advertising it was the idea of pushing myself and having a challenge. I’ve wanted to develop as a player and grow in confidence and I thought this was a great place to start. I’ve always looked up to the coaching staff as they’re all
so friendly and welcoming! It was also the thought of meeting new people who have similar interests and ideas as me.
GG: How did it feel to get that call-up and play for the first team?
KR: For me it was a mixture of both nerves and excitement. I’ve always been hard and critical on myself, particularly in football so to get called up really helped my confidence.
GG: As one of the youngest players in the squad, how have you settled in with the rest of the squad?
KR: I feel like I’ve settled in really well with the whole squad. Every single one of the players have done something to help me out and they look out and support me. They’ve all been really welcoming and I’ve enjoyed meeting more experienced players in the senior women’s game, so I feel really comfortable around them all.
GG: You’re also studying a BTEC Level 3 in Sport with Bristol Rovers Community Trust.How has this experience been and has it made a positive impact?
KR: Studying at Rovers and playing for the women’s team has helped me so much. It’s helped me to develop as a player and I feel like I can really fit into the club. The opportunities that we get as part of the BTEC course are amazing and I’d certainly recommend any girl who is studying for their GCSE’s at the moment, to enrol with Rovers.
GG: And finally, what are your hopes and aspirations while you’re a ‘Gas Girl’?
KR: I hope that I can push myself into developing into a better player… I’m excited to see what’s to come with this team and I hope that we can win many trophies and leagues!
(reproduced with the kind permission of Bristol Rovers Women’s FC)