I think my latest poem on women’s football shows my gentler side and more importantly I hope it shows the softer side of Glasgow City captain and icon and former Scotland star Leanne Ross. In it I attempt to look at a situation which only a real leader can handle and that’s when a younger player makes the first team squad and gets a place on the bench but doesn’t get on the park as she had hoped for. Now regardless of whether it’s the men’s or women’s game I don’t think there’s a player who hasn’t been in this position and been gutted that they didn’t get game time. I’ve given it the title On The Bench (A Captain’s Words For A Future Star) I hope you enjoy the read.
On The Bench (A Captain’s Words For A Future Star)
on the bench, she is deep in thought.
watching the players and studying tactical formation.
impatient, she sits waiting for her chance.
It’s her first time in the first team pool.
nervous, she tries to play it cool
as she watches intently.
the players were all friendly
to the new girl in the squad.
but none will want to be the one taken off
to allow her the game time she needs.
she has a good turn of speed
can play anywhere in the forward line or midfield.
but this, is not her time.
her chance to shine will come later.
she’s almost ready, but not quite yet.
eventually, the game ends.
without her taking the place she wanted.
disappointed her smile disappears
till the captain sees her look.
walks with her, to the dressing room,
and says. it was always
going to be tough tonight.
we needed older heads
who were prepared for the fight.
we couldn’t risk you getting hurt.
you were brought along
for different reasons .
to be given a taste of seasons yet to come .
when you’ll be the one
whose the bigger name.
and a younger player,
sad that she never got a game.
is given the same chat
we’re having.
and then makes a name for herself
on the day she is given her jersey.
and no longer on the bench
she shows the world her skills.
like you will in future seasons.
© Gayle Smith 2020
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