Earlier this month, Mary Southgate, Captain of Fulham FC Women, played in her 100th game for the Club.
Mary, most commonly known as Maz, joined the team in 2017 and has only missed a handful of games through injury, being one of the most committed individuals the group has had since its revival in 2013.
Maz had a number of influences growing up that supported her progression through football, which she shared when we recently sat down with her to discuss her achievement.
"My Dad always played football in the garden with me, and both my parents gave up so much time taking me to training and matches," she said. "My Mum and Dad still come to all our matches now which I love!
"Football, and Fulham, has always been a big love for my family. I first joined a team when I was 6 and haven’t stopped playing since!"
Talking about her early football influences, Maz said: "Female wise, Rachel Yankey and Steph Houghton were key players for me. I grew up watching the Fulham FC Men so there’s a lot of players that I aspired to be like from there."
Achieving 100 appearances has been no easy feat: "It can be challenging to manage working as a full-time teacher and playing football, but the team are so supportive and it’s really enjoyable being at training/matches so it’s all worth it!
"I just really enjoy it. Football is a big part of my life and a lot of my friends are through football. There’s something special about being part of a team. You have a unique bond and the feeling you get with your team when you win is honestly the best!"
Commenting on her achievement of playing in 100 games, Maz shared: "It’s obviously a special moment and something I am proud of. Fulham is a big part of me and my family’s life so to achieve 100 appearances is an amazing feeling. I love playing here!"
Not only has Maz had an amazing career with FFCW but she is also very encouraging of younger girls getting involved in football too: "Go for it! Just get stuck in, always believe in yourself and enjoy playing football. It’s a great place to make new friends too so have lots of fun."
Congratulations to Maz on a superb achievement!
