This week we speak to Chelsie Sparks who originally attended Open Access and is now part of the WRT/W1T teams set up. Chelsie helped found and coach CCFC’s girls and non binary U16s. She is a youth worker by trade, and she currently heads up a youth work team for a pan-London charity that supports young people experiencing homelessness and housing instability.

What is your OA origin story?

I joined OA as one of the OGs. I saw a call out on socials just after I returned to London after having spent the past 7 years living in Belfast. I hadn’t played football properly or recreationally even for years, and had a complicated relationship with the game but I was keen to give back to football, and to become part of something better.

CCFC was a great fit. I remember turning up to Mabley Green and being greeted by Ellie and Julie, and some other incredible people who were returning, beginning and they were getting stuck in.

What makes OA special?

I don’t think that I would have taken the steps to return to competitive football, let alone CCFC W1T had it not had been for the free OA sessions and Ellie and Julie.

When I think of Clapton CFC, I think of OA and I think of the incredible coaches that inspired me and convinced me to try again. What happens at these sessions is pure magic. The confidence building, the sense of togetherness and community and not to mention the socials! I’ve made friends for life through OA and I’m completely indebted to the coaches for helping me to love football again.

Who makes your dream 5-a-side team?

GK – Mary Earps
DF – Roberto Carlos
MF – Keira Walsh
MF – David Beckham
FW – Rachel Yankey