Finding My Purpose
Danielle Probert, England
Goal Click, Southampton, and Utilita have created a new storytelling series, telling the inside story of the Football Rebooted campaign to rehome at least 1 million pairs of quality football boots across the UK - all through the eyes and voices of the individuals and communities contributing and benefiting from the campaign. Danielle Probert is a goalkeeper for Braunton FC.
What has your football journey been up until now?
My name is Danielle Probert. I was born in Ascot, Berkshire but now live in Ilfracombe, Devon. I am a goalkeeper for Braunton FC Ability. I have suffered from epilepsy since birth and have Asperger’s. I had a major operation to hopefully improve my epilepsy in April 2022.
I joined Braunton FC Ability about three years ago and have trained with them that whole period. I have yet to play in a proper match due to my health circumstances, as my regular seizures were getting worse. Hopefully after my operation I will be able to.
I have really enjoyed my football experience so far; it has given me more confidence and fitness and it has been nice to see old friends from school and college. I enjoy saving goals and like it when the team do well.
What did you try to capture with your photos? Was there a wider meaning?
The people in the photos are friends and acquaintances I have met since starting football. I have good memories from school and college.
I tried to show the fun we have and make people realise the good work our coaches do plus the hard work the players put in.
Football is popular in my community. There seems to be more players that turn up now, with spectators as well. I love football and hope to continue for as long as I can. I think football has a good future in this area due to the help of the coaches.
What impact has Football Rebooted had on you and your community?
I heard about Football Rebooted through my coach Mel Benson. Football Rebooted has helped many children get into the sport when otherwise they would not have been able to.
I am very happy with my boots and look forward to being able to play in a proper match with them.
What do you do to be more environmentally friendly?
I do charity quizzes to make people aware of the things going on in the world and support charities like Operation Smile, Children in Need, and Water Aid. I have just been given Pride of Ilfracombe Award, which makes me very proud.
What are the opportunities for women and girls to play football in your community?
Opportunities for women and girls getting into football are very good here. I think Football Rebooted is getting more girls into football.
I really enjoy training and being with old friends from school. It is nice to have an interest outside of home which gives me purpose and a belief that things will get better.
Series edited by Emma Walley.