Lola Eastwood
Published 10:45, 5 August 2022 BST

Kirsty Hanson Lives Her Manchester United Childhood Dream Through Determination and Can-Do Attitude.

Hanson shares her story with Miss Kick Captain, Lola Eastwood, on becoming a WSL footballer and explains that her journey hasn’t been 100% smooth with Manchester United trial setbacks.

Miss Kick Captain, Lola Eastwood with Manchester United Player, Kirsty Hanson.

Kirsty Hanson, 24, started playing football at the age of 5. ‘The boys on my street were playing football and I wanted to get involved’. Whilst at primary school, Kirsty was successful at a trial for Bradford RTC (Regional Talent Club). She then realised there was a Manchester United RTC and set herself a new goal.

"No matter how many times it’ll take me, I will play for them"

Hanson’s first trial for United was unsuccessful, but she didn’t let the knock back stop her, "no matter how many times it’ll take me, I will play for them", Hanson strongly stated. The determined footballer went back for a second trial and finally secured a place at the Manchester United RTC. This positive attitude led her to playing first team football under Casey Stoney and Marc Skinner.

When asked about the best players she’s played against, Hanson named ex Manchester City defender and Lioness, Lucy Bronze, along with Arsenal and Scotland midfielder, Kim Little, as true professionals in the game.

Hanson’s main inspirations are her parents, "I always looked up to them because they’ve always worked hard to get to where they want to be" the footballer proudly lets out. Having that kind of support allowed Hanson to develop and maintain her 'never give up attitude'.

Something that the professional footballer has had to learn for herself is that 'you’ve just got to enjoy football and don’t worry about what others think of you'. The wise words can be used to inspire any aspiring football with Hanson finishing off with the advice to "play your game".