AFC Bournemouth
Lucy Cooper has been reflecting on a hugely successful year with the women’s team as 2023 looks to draw to a close.
The side remain unbeaten and top of the National League in 2023/24 and reached the third round proper of the FA Cup for the first time in history.
For Cooper, she has developed on and off the pitch, reaching her own milestones and growing as a person away from football.
The striker sat down with afcb.co.uk to discuss it all.
“It’s definitely been a busy year! I’m so proud to be a part of this team, and everyone has gone above and beyond to win games, leading to some exceptional performances.
“There’s obviously been highs and lows, but I’ve loved creating lifelong memories alongside my teammates, and am looking forward to seeing what next year holds.
“Off the pitch, some things never change. I still go to Sixth Form, revise, listen to music and spend time with family, but 2023 has created some other great memories like passing my driving test and turning 18.
“It’s always been important to me to work hard in all aspects of life, and with A Levels coming up next year I need to maintain this work ethic and enthusiastic mentality.
“Every training session and game is another opportunity to learn, and whether it’s little things like changing how I defend or the runs I make, to conquering nerves and being more resilient, this year has been full of lessons I’m very grateful for!”
Cooper went on to discuss what was possibly the biggest moment of 2023 for the women’s team, as they walked out in front of a record-breaking crowd at Vitality Stadium when Portishead Town came to visit in early November.
It’s the highest number the club have ever had watching the women’s team and reaching that milestone will live long in the memory for Cooper.
“Words can’t describe the feeling of walking out at Vitality Stadium in front of almost 7,000 people.
“We didn’t expect there to be that many fans, but with the help of the club we were able to put on a truly incredible event, and we can’t wait to see more fans at our games in the future!
“The support from the fans and backing from the club this year has been incredible and it’s given the women’s team a massive boost.
“We’ve been given the opportunity to dream about even bigger things, and it’s exciting to think about what the future may hold, as this team has the potential to make history.”
