A teenage girl has defied her disabilities to become a skilled football player in Southampton.

At 13 years of age, Ellie has grown into a happy, confident football player with the support of Southampton FC charity, Saints Foundation.

SaintsAbility, a programme run by the charity provides regular football and life skills sessions for disabled young people and adults in the city.

The sessions are said to give them the opportunity to socialise and be more confident and have now helped Ellie overcome challenges with her hearing and balance to become a skilled footballer.

She now has aspirations to play for her country and said: “When I started, I didn’t know anything about football. I was nervous, I was shy, I didn’t have a lot of friends at the time. It’s just been unbelievable the journey I’ve had.”

Daily Echo: Ellie Wheatley from Winchester, who has been named the face of a Saints Foundation campaign. Photos: Saints Foundation

Now, in recognition of what she has accomplished with the foundation, Ellie will open the charity’s 20 year celebrations, leading the We March Together walk this Saturday.

Starting at the Common, the 5km walk is taking place to mark 135 years of Saints, taking those who are attending on a journey through the clubs history by visiting the site of the Dell, St Mary’s Church and St Mary’s stadium.

Ellie added: “I’m just so proud to be part of this absolutely incredible charity.”

Rob Pearce, Saints Foundation Involvement Projects Manager said: “She’s really a core part of SaintsAbility.

“We often get people who are quite nervous but as soon as they interact with Ellie, they are really happy and comfortable coming to our sessions.”

In the past two decades, the foundation has helped thousands become more involved, healthier and empowered.

In the 2021/22 season, the charity is celebrating this milestone by looking back at 20 years of work, highlighting the stories of many people like Ellie who have transformed their lives with its support.

Those who want to get involved with We March Together or other events in celebration of the foundation’s 20th year can do so by visiting: https://www.southamptonfc.com/saints-foundation.