West Ham Female Player Pathway Marks Successful Season as Stars Surprise Young Players
The West Ham Female Player Pathway celebrated a remarkable season as West Ham United Women’s first team stars Katie Zelem and Laia Codina surprised players during a special trophy presentation at The Foundry.
The event highlighted an impressive 2025/26 campaign for the Foundation’s girls’ teams, which achieved success across multiple age groups. Players ranging from the Under-11s to the Under-16s gathered to commemorate a season that included winning six Junior Premier League titles, two national competitions, and two cup trophies.
Advertisement
While the numerous awards made for a memorable day, one final surprise awaited the young Hammers.
England international Zelem and World Cup champion Codina arrived to personally congratulate the players, transforming an already exciting celebration into an unforgettable event.
A Season to Remember for the West Ham Female Player Pathway
Success has become a hallmark of the West Ham Female Player Pathway, but the accomplishments of the 2025/26 campaign stand out as a highlight for the programme.
Throughout all age categories, players showcased their talent, clinching league titles while also performing well on the national stage. The impressive trophy tally not only reflects the players’ quality but also the dedication of the Foundation’s coaching staff behind the scenes.
Advertisement
The celebration at The Foundry aimed to recognize every player’s contribution throughout the season. Families, coaches, and teammates came together to honor months of hard work, dedication, and development.
Rows of trophies adorned the venue, serving as a reminder of the teams’ collective achievements over the season.
Katie Zelem and Laia Codina Surprise the Young Players
As players admired their hard-earned silverware, excitement filled The Foundry when Zelem and Codina entered the room. For many of the girls, it was a unique opportunity to meet two players they often watch and admire.
Advertisement
Instead of simply taking photos, both players engaged with every age group, distributing trophies, answering questions, and participating in a training session.
The visit allowed players to learn directly from professionals competing at the highest level of women’s football. The advice shared covered topics such as training habits, building confidence, handling setbacks, and relishing every stage of their journey.
Katie Zelem Reflects on Progress in Women’s Football
Zelem expressed admiration for the quality she observed among the Foundation players during her visit.
She commented that witnessing so many young girls playing football together highlighted how much the sport has evolved since her early playing days.
Advertisement
Growing up, Zelem often found herself as the only girl in boys’ teams, facing limited opportunities for participation in organized leagues. Observing the scene at The Foundry was a strong reminder of the progress made in women’s football.
The midfielder commended the players for their achievements while appreciating the nurturing environment created by the Foundation for young athletes.
She emphasized that access to experienced coaches, high-quality facilities, and a structured pathway provides today’s players with opportunities that were unavailable to previous generations.
Equally important, she noted the confidence and life skills young players develop through football, alongside their improvements on the pitch.
Advertisement
Laia Codina Reminds Players to Enjoy the Game
Spain international Codina believes visits like this benefit professional players as much as the young footballers they encounter. Observing the girls train reminded her of the joy she felt playing football with friends before turning pro.
She remarked that the players’ enthusiasm was palpable, noting how their passion for football shone through in every training exercise and conversation throughout the afternoon.
While winning trophies delights every player, Codina urged the girls not to overlook the friendships cultivated through football. She remarked that while medals and trophies are significant achievements, the memories made alongside teammates often hold greater value.
Advertisement
Her message to the players was to keep working hard, remain ambitious, and, above all, relish every moment of playing football.
Young Hammers Inspired by Their Role Models
The visit had a profound impact on players of all ages.
Under-14 player Freya described the season as unforgettable after helping her team achieve success. She felt meeting Zelem and Codina was the perfect conclusion to an incredible year, with their insights making the celebration all the more special.
Under-12 player Molly echoed Freya’s sentiments, stating that seeing players who have reached the pinnacle she aspires to gave her extra motivation.
Advertisement
Listening to their stories helped her grasp what it takes to succeed in professional football while emphasizing the importance of hard work and enjoying the game.
For many girls present, the afternoon held meaning beyond just photographs and autographs. It represented a glimpse of the possibilities achievable through dedication, commitment, and belief.
Developing Future Talent through the West Ham Female Player Pathway
The West Ham Female Player Pathway continues to create opportunities for girls aged five to 18 to grow both as footballers and individuals.
Advertisement
The programme establishes a clear progression route across all age groups while emphasizing personal development, confidence, and education.
Players gain from experienced coaching, competitive matches, and a supportive environment that prioritizes long-term growth over short-term success.
While trophy wins are appreciated, the Foundation remains focused on cultivating skills needed both on and off the field. The pathway has become integral to the club’s long-term commitment to advancing women’s football in east London and beyond.
Joseph Lyons Outlines the Foundation’s Ambition
West Ham United Foundation CEO Joseph Lyons believes the players’ achievements reflect everyone’s dedication throughout the season. He commended the players for their commitment, while also acknowledging the coaches and staff who foster an environment for young athletes to excel.
Advertisement
Lyons noted that the collaboration between the Foundation and West Ham United Women plays a pivotal role in motivating the next generation.
Regular interactions with first-team players help young athletes believe their dreams can become a reality. The long-term goal remains to see them progress through the pathway and debut for West Ham United Women’s first team.
The Foundry Showcases the Club’s Community Values
Both Zelem and Codina visited The Foundry for the first time following their permanent transfers to West Ham this summer. They were struck by the extent of the Foundation’s work throughout east London.
Advertisement
The Foundry serves as a central hub for education, health, employability, and community programmes, supporting tens of thousands of local residents annually, alongside its football initiatives.
Zelem described the Foundation as a source of pride for all connected to West Ham, commending its positive community impact.
Codina stated that learning about the Foundation has deepened her understanding of her new club’s identity beyond match days, emphasizing the importance of engaging in community projects while representing West Ham United, and expressing her desire to support the Foundation in the future.
https://x.com/WestHamWomen/status/2067973173149413791?s=20
Advertisement
A Bright Future Lies Ahead
The astounding success of the 2025/26 season underscores the strength of the West Ham Female Player Pathway and the promising future of girls’ football at the club.
Securing ten major honours in one season is a significant achievement, yet the true impact of the programme stretches well beyond mere trophies.
By fostering opportunities, inspiring young players, and establishing clear pathways into the professional realm, the Foundation is actively shaping the next generation of footballers.
With role models such as Zelem and Codina encouraging those progressing through the ranks, the outlook for West Ham United Women’s pathway and its aspiring talents remains incredibly bright.
Advertisement
Related articles from Her Football Hub:
-
WSL: Estelle Cascarino returns to West Ham and what it means for their 2026/27 season plans
-
Fulham preparing for next chapter as historic rise continues following season double
-
Why do we become football fans?: Types of supporters and the psychology behind it