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> Olivia Smith, the 21-year-old footballer, is making history as the first female £1m player in the game. Signed by Arsenal from Liverpool in a groundbreaking deal, Smith’s legacy precedes her debut at Emirates Stadium this Saturday. Despite the record fee being surpassed since then, she remains a trailblazer in women’s football. Erica Dambach, her former coach at Penn State University, attests to her preparedness and innate talent for the sport from a young age.
> Hailing from Canada, Smith made her national team debut at just 15, setting the stage for her rapid ascent in the football world. Her transition from Sporting CP to Liverpool and eventually Arsenal has been characterized by humility and resilience. Former coaches, such as Matt Beard, emphasize her grounded nature amidst her skyrocketing career. Smith’s personable demeanor and ability to adapt seamlessly to new environments have endeared her to those she works with.
> The unwavering support of Smith’s parents, Sean Smith and Sulee Riquelme-Smith, has been instrumental in her success. Throughout her journey, they have stood by her side, nurturing her passion for football and fostering her growth as an athlete. Their sacrifices and guidance have molded Smith into the player she is today. Her diverse athletic background, which includes sports like hockey and martial arts, has enriched her skill set and contributed to her competitive spirit on the field.
> Sean Smith, often likened to the influential fathers of tennis legends Serena and Venus Williams, has played a significant role in shaping his daughter’s career. His mentorship and unwavering support have been pivotal in Smith’s development as a professional footballer. Sporting’s head of women’s football, Margarida Batlle y Font, acknowledges the profound influence of Smith’s family in her trajectory and credits them for her exceptional journey
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