It’s Laura McGregor today! Thanks to Laura for very kindly giving up her time to answer our questions!
Where have you played previously and have you always been a footballer, or do you play other sports?
“My love of football started as a child. I loved playing football with the boys at school at break times and attended the Saturday morning boys football club. Growing up in the late 80s and early 90s, there was little/no girls football about, so I was allowed to join in with the boys up to a point. There were no teams or competitive options open to me. At secondary school there was no girls football at all, but a friend of mine got me into hockey goalkeeping! I was good at kicking a ball and pretty fearless!
We had an amazing team and enjoyed loads of success, including being national indoor hockey runners up in year 2000. Despite not playing regularly, I never lost my love of football and would kick about with my dad and brother or family friends whenever possible. Fortunately, once I got to university, things had moved on in the women’s game and so I was able to join the Homerton College women’s football team.
HCWFC was the best! Great group of girls and it really gave me such joy to play competitively. After leaving university I played for Marlow ladies in my early/mid-twenties which I really enjoyed. I then moved abroad and became a wife and mother of three boys so thought my playing days were over……until last year I stumbled across WEFC and felt compelled to join. I haven’t looked back since!
I feel truly honoured to have joined such an incredible team and be part of such a wonderful community… plus I’m enjoying the new lease of life it’s given me. I’m arguably playing the best football of my career even after turning 40. I feel blessed every time I run out onto the pitch and for every minute I get to play. I feel I am making the ‘young me’ who dreamt of these opportunities, but wondered if they’d ever come, very proud and hope I can inspire others. It’s never too late! I love that my children are getting to see a different side to me as well.”
What’s your best position and or where would you prefer to play?
“As I ended up playing hockey goalie in my teens and twenties I have had a few stints in goal over the years, but my preferred position is up front. Clearly anything that involves being in or around the goal!”
How would you describe your playing style?
“I am not the prettiest or most graceful of players, but I will always give 100%. I never give up and always work hard to put pressure on the opponents and be in the right place at the right time to scoop up some goals. I am always determined to score no matter what!
Since joining this team people have also complimented me on my hold up play which has been something new that I’ve learnt is an asset of mine and helps the team. I am positive and calm, try to lead by example and always try to be a steadying influence within the team.”
What’s your ambition?
“To continue to be a valuable part of the team, to continue scoring goals and help the team secure promotion. Beyond that… who knows? As I said I feel blessed to have got this far and appreciate each game as it comes. I will never take anything for granted but this has taught me you never know what the future may hold.”
Who’s the best player you’ve played with in a team?
“I’ve played with some amazing players over the years but apart from my current teammates (obviously) I would have to say Bex Lewis on my university team. She was just so skilful, an awesome captain, great laugh and really got me back into the game. At Marlow I would say Gemma Harmycz. She was incredible in midfield; she was absolutely solid in defence, could read the game so well and pick out amazing passes. You just felt safe whenever she was on or around the ball.”
Best piece of footballing advice you’ve ever been given?
“Not sure I can think of a specific piece of advice, but I have learnt so much from observing other players. I also think I learnt lots during my years away from the pitch. I watched a lot more pro football on tv with my wife Narelle (a big West Ham fan) and analysing and talking about players and game play. I feel much more aware of the bigger picture and space on the pitch since returning to playing.”
Is there something you’d like to be better at?
“Lots! I’m always looking to learn and improve. I’ll never be complacent-it’s just not in my nature. I’m happy to have scored 11 goals in 10 matches so far this season but still know my finishing could be better-more consistent and greater finesse!
I particularly wish I was better at long range shooting, fancy power shots like some of my teammates such as Stevie, Emma, Lauren, Rach, Sophie to name but a few! Additionally, have fancy footwork and amazing crosses like Emma D (Ed). But I guess I’ll leave those to the others for now and keep playing my role. It’s such a joy to be playing alongside so many incredible players and it is also really inspiring and motivating as I want to try and keep up with them and not let the side down!”
What do you do outside of WEFC?
“I am the deputy headteacher of Petts Hill Primary School in Northolt which is such a wonderful school and another community that I’m proud to be part of. I run the girls football club there too, so I hope I am inspiring a future generation through that! I am also a wife and a mum to my wonderful three sons Ezra, Byron and Jonah who are the light of my life.
I’d like to take the chance to thank everyone who’s ever been part of my footballing journey and particularly everyone involved in establishing WEFC women’s team. All my teammates are incredible, and I can’t thank the coaching and management team enough for the confidence they have given me through their faith in me. This club has given me opportunities to show my children a different side to their mum and allowed my parents to see their daughter fulfilling her childhood dreams again. Thank you. Here’s to a great second half of the season. Come on Windsor!!!”
