To my family at Arsenal,
I’m overcome with appreciation as I sit down to write this letter. It’s the kind that makes you realize how much a location, a club, and a community can influence a person’s life. Since I first put on the shirt as a young girl with lofty aspirations and an unwavering faith in what this club stood for, Arsenal has been my home. These aspirations are still growing today, but they are firmly anchored in the love and support I have been fortunate to receive from everyone in this amazing community.
Thank you to the women of Arsenal, my sisters in combat and teammates. You have pushed me, motivated me, encouraged me when I was unsure, and rejoiced with me when I was triumphant. Every practice, every game, every victory and defeat has shaped me into a better person as well as a better football player. Arsenal is one of the most remarkable settings in world football because of the standards we uphold, the culture we create, and the unity we preserve.
Thank you to all of the coaching staff—past and present—for having faith in me before I had complete faith in myself. Thank you for molding my leadership, honing my knowledge of the game, and providing me with the opportunity to develop not just as an athlete but also as a woman, a leader, and someone who aspires to leave a significant legacy.
There are no words to express how much your support has meant to the fans, who are the club’s lifeblood. Your words have reverberated throughout every stage of my journey, whether I was in the Emirates, in Meadow Park, or across oceans. You supported me through my best and worst times, including when I was injured and recovering. I’ve been pulled up into the sky and across storms by your love. I hope I’ve returned even a small portion of what you gave me.
And I want to express my gratitude to the entire Arsenal community—the employees, the academy, the families, and the generations bound together by red and white—for fostering an environment where young girls like me could dream big and develop self-assurance. My career flourished because of the environment, the platform, and your belief.
I don’t only play at this club. I belong there. I am grateful for every experience, memory, and lesson that has shaped my path thus far.
With all of my heart,
Williamson, Leah