Jessie’s Journey in the Changing World of Women’s Football

As we approach International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the incredible women shaping the future of football and sport.

We talk to Jessie Gale, whose journey has taken her from kicking a ball around the garden to signing her first professional contract with Arsenal Women’s Football Club. Jessie’s journey reflects both talent and determination. Now on loan at Bristol City Women’s Football Club, she continues to build her place in the professional game.

In this interview, Jessie reflects on the trailblazers who inspired her, the challenges that still exist in women’s sport, the moments that have defined her journey so far and inspiring the next generation.

What first inspired you to start playing football?
I played football in the garden from the time that I could walk. It helped that my brother and dad both loved playing, so there was always someone to kick a football with. I was part of a local team from the time I was 6, but my main sport until I was 14 or 15 was cricket. I played for Kent and was part of the Southeast Stars franchise until I dropped cricket to focus on football.

Who were your role models growing up and why?
Kelly Smith. She was one of the greatest strikers the women’s game has ever seen.

What barriers in women’s sport today are less visible, but still very real?
There are many players and athletes from all sports who struggle to make ends meet and often must fit training around work or family commitments.

How has being a professional athlete shaped you as a woman beyond football?
I feel incredibly lucky to be pursuing a career doing something I love. Throughout my sporting journey, I’ve met some truly incredible friends and have been fortunate to have such great mentors along the way. The older pros at every club I’ve been part of have been so welcoming and generous with their advice.

What’s something people don’t realise about the reality of going out on loan or being transferred?
Things can happen very quickly, so you have to move and start a fresh new life somewhere, which takes quite a lot of resilience (and in my case, help from my mum and dad to get me packed up).

How important is investment in facilities and media coverage for women’s sport?
There’s still a massive disparity between men and women, except at the top-level clubs. But companies like Mercury13, which invest in Bristol City Women in WSL2, where I’m currently on loan, are genuinely walking the walk. They’re in it for the long haul and are truly transforming the player and fan experience.

What helped shape you as a player when you were young?
Playing on a boys’ team until I was 12 gave me a great foundation. It made me fierce and strong.

What has been your proudest moment in your football journey so far?
Definitely winning the FIFA Youth Cup with Arsenal Under-21s in 2024 and signing my first professional contract with Arsenal last year. Winning Player of the Month at Bristol in my first month on loan, then topping it off by being named PFA Player of the Month and winning the Barclays WSL2 (Women’s Super League 2) Goal of the Month for January 2026. Another proud moment was making my debut for England Under-19s, scoring my first international goal and receiving my first call-up to the England Under-23s. I’ve had so many proud moments and I love them all.

One word to describe women’s football today?
Evolving.

What message would you share with young girls who want to pursue a football career?
Do it. Go for it. You’ll make the best friends ever and have so much fun along the way with people who are just like you.

If women’s sport in 2035 looks exactly the way you hope it will, what does that picture look like especially in terms of stadiums, training facilities and grassroots spaces?
That there’s more equality and opportunity for girls to participate in facilities their male counterparts have enjoyed or benefited from. Brands can genuinely play a role here in building grassroot infrastructures.