Luciana

When asked who inspired her to give football a go, Luciana didn’t hesitate: “My sister.” Growing up, her earliest memories are filled with kickabouts in the park, cheering at the TV during matches, and playful challenges on the pitch. Football was always at the heart of their bond.

So, when Coin Street offered summer football sessions, Luciana jumped at the chance, and convinced her mum to sign her up. It wasn’t surprising; their Colombian roots are steeped in the vibrant spirit of fútbol - Spanish for football.

From the start, Luciana’s dedication stood out. She attended all nine sessions without missing one. For her, it wasn’t just about playing, it was about proving something to herself. “I’m active anyway,” she says, “but these sessions made me even fitter.”

Her favourite moments weren’t the big goals or dramatic finishes, but the drills; the technical details that sharpen her skills. She loves the challenge of dribbling sideways, the thrill of timed sprints, and the mini-games where quick-thinking matters. “Sometimes I win the ball straight away, sometimes I don’t,” she laughs, “but it’s always fun.”

Luciana looks up to Arsenal star Bukayo Saka, not just for his talent, but for his discipline and commitment. Those qualities echo in the advice she gives to other girls who might feel nervous about joining:

“Football isn’t just a game; it’s a way to prove to yourself that you can do hard things. Trust your feet, trust your pace, and never let fear stop you from trying.”

Inclusivity matters deeply to Luciana. She values girls-only spaces because, as she puts it, “boys are too physical and critical if we do something wrong.” At school, that pressure sometimes kept her from playing. But in a supportive environment, where coaches encourage and respect every player, she’s found confidence and joy.

For Luciana, football is more than a sport; it’s a comfort zone. Her story shows how a safe, welcoming space can transform lives, building not just fitness and skill, but resilience and self-belief.