Throughout International Women’s Month, we’re highlighting the amazing work our staff do within the Community department at Arsenal. Today we hear from Arsenal in the Community sessional worker Celia Facey, who speaks about her role at Arsenal, who has inspired her and the importance of celebrating women.
What is your job and what does it entail?
As a Community sessional worker I support the coaching sessions and staff. Tasks include registering the young people, making sure all the equipment is ready for the session, doing health and safety checks, completing sessional reports and supporting the young people who attend.
What do you love most about your job?
I love working with young people and watching them develop and grow as individuals. I also work with an amazing team and it’s great working together during the sessions, as well as seeing young people go on to be volunteers and helping to train other young people.
Tell us about your journey to your role now…
I have always worked with children of all ages from nurseries, to after-school clubs, playschemes and youth work. I have had an amazing journey working with Arsenal but in five years, I would love to retire by then and sit on a beautiful Island soaking up the sun.
Have you always wanted to work in sport?
I have always loved sport and have been working with Arsenal in the Community since 2006.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme is “Invest in Women, Accelerate Progress”. What does this mean to you?
It’s great that women are the main focus and that women are being recognised in such a male-dominated industry. It’s fantastic to see a lot of young women getting more involved in a multitude of sports.
Why is International Women’s Month important to you?
It’s very important because it is a month when we can emphasise the amazing contributions of women from all walks of life. It’s also an opportunity to inspire the next generation of young girls.
Which women have inspired you?
I’m a huge fan of Serena Williams. I think she is very inspirational, and she shows that hard work and dedication pay off. I love her determination and that she is dedicated to supporting other young and up-and-coming female tennis players. It also resonates with me because I want to make sure I continue to support young people and guide them so they can achieve their goals.
What’s your favourite sporting memory?
I’d have to say the England Lionesses winning the Euros in 2022. That was such an amazing moment and it accelerated the growth of women’s football on a massive scale.
How amazing is it to see Arsenal Women sell out the Emirates Stadium two games in a row?
It is amazing and it just goes to show how far women’s football has come. I can only hope this continues for future matches.
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