Manchester City Women forward Mary Fowler has reflected on the powerful influence of the women in her life, saying she would not be the person she is today without the support and guidance of her female role models.
Speaking as part of the celebrations for International Women’s Day, the forward highlighted the importance of recognising the impact women continue to make both within sport and across society.
This year’s global theme, “Give to Gain,” focuses on encouraging generosity, collaboration and collective progress.
To mark the occasion, Manchester City launched a special initiative titled “Send it Forward,” which uses augmented reality technology to share advice from inspirational women across the club.
Fowler, a key figure in the project, contributed a message designed to encourage young girls to consider careers in football and pursue their ambitions within the industry.
“For me, International Women’s Day is a time to think about my role models and all the women I have around who have impacted me in a positive way,” she explained.
“I think about my sisters, my mum, my friends. I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it wasn’t for them. Those connections are so important and it’s so nice to celebrate that.”
The Australia international also emphasised how women’s sport continues to grow, creating new opportunities for athletes around the world.
“On a broader scale, to celebrate how much impact women can have in the world as well and I think you’re seeing that in women’s sport now.
“When we get the opportunity, we are just as determined and just as committed as we can be to our craft.”
Since joining City in 2022, Fowler has developed into one of the most exciting attacking talents in the women’s game.
The dynamic forward has made 88 appearances for the club and scored 21 goals, consistently showcasing her intelligence and creativity in the final third.
At international level, she has also become a central figure for the Australia women’s national soccer team, playing a key role in the team’s historic run to their best-ever finish at the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.
Now, the 23-year-old hopes her journey can inspire the next generation of girls aiming to build careers within football.
“It’s really exciting to see a lot of girls follow in our footsteps.
“On a personal level, I get to celebrate all the wonderful women I have in my life and I’m continuously learning more and more about the past, how I’ve been able to be in the position I am today with the opportunities I have.
“I know it definitely wasn’t like that in the past for a lot of women. I’ve not been as informed as that and I’d like to learn more. In the past year it’s been really eye opening and inspiring to learn the struggles women have had.
“And it’s helped me to be a lot more grateful for the position I’m in because I know it’s difficult for a lot of women in a lot of countries out there.
“[I’m] Taking the positives when I can but being grateful for the women I have in my life.”
Through her words and performances on the pitch, Fowler continues to champion the growing influence of women in football while inspiring the next wave of talent to step forward and chase their dreams.
Toosin is a dedicated sports writer with a strong background in crafting engaging and insightful content. With experience at Goal, he has developed a sharp editorial sense and a refined storytelling approach that brings depth and perspective to sports journalism. His passion for the game goes beyond the headlines, as he captures both the excitement of the sport and the compelling human narratives behind each event. Toosin’s work resonates with a broad and diverse audience, making global sports stories accessible, relatable, and impactful.
