Everton stars inspire young girls ahead of 2026 Street Child World Cup

Recently, Everton stars Courtney Brosnan and Katja Snoeijs led a special training session at Finch Farm. They mentored 10 young girls who have been chosen by Everton in the Community (EitC) to represent Team England at the 2026 Street Child World Cup.

The global tournament will take place in May, preceding the FIFA World Cup. The girls’ team is stepping up their preparations for the tournament. To help, Courtney and Katja coached a technical football session for the young players. It gave them the chance to train alongside Women’s Super League professional footballers.

The local girls drew on the duo’s experience and expertise. They left the club’s training ground feeling inspired and empowered.

Football Brings People Together

Reflecting on the session, Toffees goalkeeper, Courtney Brosnan, said:

“It’s a lot of fun to get out here with the girls. It’s been really great to develop a relationship with them and get to know them so well. Football is an incredible outlet and it’s amazing to see them out here with smiles on their faces making friends.

“That’s what I love about football – seeing them gelling together, which is exactly what they’ll do on the world stage, is fantastic. I think it’s an unbelievable initiative that brings so many people together from different places. It really shows how powerful football can be in creating experiences and memories and I’m sure these girls will take that with them forever.”

Grace, one of the players from the girls’ team, added:

“Katja and Courtney are really bubbly and it’s so nice to be around them. They can teach us about football but also about the lifestyle of being a footballer. It’s been so inspiring to learn from them and prepare for the tournament.”

Powered by the Players Project Pilot

The opportunity has been made possible thanks to funding from the Premier League and Professional Footballers’ Association through the Players Project Pilot. It allows participants from EitC’s She Inspires programme, including Grace, to showcase their talents for Team England at the major football event which will take place this year in Mexico.

The Players’ Project Pilot aims to put professional footballers at the heart of local initiatives that address important societal issues. She Inspires empowers young girls and women across Merseyside, particularly those who might not otherwise have access to such opportunities.

Over the past 12 months, Courtney and Katja have supported the girls’ team in ambassadorial roles. They have joined them on their journey in the build-up to the SCWC. The Everton pair have helped shape the project through a series of educational workshops and activities. The initiative culminated in this special football training session ahead of their trip to Mexico City in a few months.

About the Street World Cup

The Street Child World Cup is a global initiative that empowers street-connected children. It advocates for their rights and provides opportunities they deserve. Street Child United organises the initiative ahead of each FIFA World Cup. It brings together children from across the world to play football, take part in arts festivals and join child-friendly Congress sessions.

In May 2026, Mexico City will welcome over 500 young people. They will come together to play football and inspire change for a fairer future.