World Cup star sends inspirational message

Australia Women’s World Cup star Alex Chidiac took time out of preparation for their tournament opener against Ireland on Thursday, to deliver a special inspirational message to people with learning disabilities and autism across the UK.

The 24-year-old Racing Louisville midfielder sent a video message to people taking part in our charity’s ‘What To Do’ programme (www.What-To-Do.co.uk), which offers life-changing experiences online to people who access social care.

The message was part of our latest session, featuring England International and Liverpool FC Women’s star, Gemma Bonner, to help those taking part find confidence and belief in themselves, ahead of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.

Bonner shared tips on building self-belief with a look back at her career, and the benefits associated with trying new things. She then shared video messages from her former Racing team-mate Chidiac, who recounted how she overcome her own moments of adversity during her career, including missing out on selection for the last Women’s World Cup in France four years ago.

Speaking from the Matildas training camp in Sydney, Chidiac shared her support of Community Integrated Care’s efforts, saying: “I’ve heard about the amazing work you’re doing at Community Integrated Care for people with learning disabilities – helping people to live their best lives possible – and I wanted to send you all a message.”

“I’ve had quite a few setbacks in my time and challenges to get here today. Along the way, I’ve realised that valuing small moments and doing something that you might think is quite simple, like bringing energy to everything you do, will help you to succeed.”

“In the end, just be yourself, that’s the main thing, and everything will come together. Trust in that process – and I know it’s difficult at times when you can question yourself.”

“But it’s definitely possible to get there in the end and if you surround yourself with people that want to support you and help you get there, the sky is the limit. I’m living proof of that at the moment. Don’t be afraid to go follow your dreams and good luck with everything.”

Lewis Webster, Sports Inclusion Communications Manager at Community Integrated Care was delighted to receive the backing of the Australia midfielder. He said, “It’s amazing to know that with the support of Gemma Bonner, our charity’s work in sports inclusion is being seen internationally. In preparation for the event on What To Do, Gemma was keen to reach out to her footballing friends across the world, to inspire participants to believe in themselves. Her friends, Alex and Scotland and Real Madrid star Caroline Weir gladly sent over positive video messages for the group to enjoy, which will hopefully encourage people we support to follow their dreams.”

You can watch the full message here:

To find about more about What To Do and to see all the details for the next session, visit www.What-To-Do.co.uk