A 16-year-old is set to throw herself on the pitch to honour her 'loving' dad and keep his legacy alive.
Leah Etheridge's dad, Mark, was a passionate Saints supporter and loved to share his passion for the game with his three children.
In fact, he took Leah to her very first Saints match.
Four years ago, whilst attending his daughter's game, he collapsed.
He suffered a brain haemorrhage and was taken to Southampton General Hospital.
After undergoing emergency brain surgery, the 40-year-old was not getting any better and stopped responding to treatments.
He spent a week on life support in the intensive care unit before medics said there was nothing more that could be done to save him.
Mark passed away on May 12, 2018 surrounded by his loved ones.
Four years after their father's death, Leah and her family, who now live in Chandler's Ford, are raising £1,000 for the Wessex Neurological Centre. 
On her fundraiser, Leah said: "The care and support given to both my dad and us as a family was incredible.
"The team was fantastic and the compassion they showed us all was above and beyond."
Her mum, Kate, said she was very proud of her daughter's efforts to raise money for the hospital team.
She said: "Leah lives and breathes football.
"After her dad's death, she was struggling with her mental health. But football was the only thing that kept her going." 
She added: "It helped her with the grieving process and has been her saviour.
"All of us couldn't be more proud of her. She is an incredible footballer and a lovely girl."
Leah now plays for Eastleigh FC Women's Reserves, making the transition to women’s football. 
With community support, she has managed to raise just over £500.
On the money raised, Kate said: "It is such a great start. We have raised a fantastic amount of money.
"I am so grateful for everyone's support and the kind messages they have sent us." 
On Saturday, September 10, at the Eastleigh FC at halftime against Scunthorpe Leah will be throwing herself around in goal.
"Please donate what you can for this amazing charity and if you want to try and score a goal against me."
To support her fundraiser, visit:www.justgiving.com/fundraising/leah-etheridge
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