That’s why I’m writing to you. Singapore, I don’t want applause, I want momentum.
I want little girls to stop being the exception when they show up on the pitch. I want them to be seen, supported, coached, celebrated — not after they leave the country but before.
Not after they win something, but because they dared to try. We need fields where girls don’t feel as if they’re intruding. We need coaches who see potential, not difference.
We need schools that nurture sport not as a side project but as a valid, vital dream.
Because that girl at the park yesterday? She’s already choosing this life. She’s already falling in love with the game in the purest way. And if we let her, she’ll go far.
Not because she’s trying to be the next me — but because she’s trying to be fully, wonderfully herself.
With love and hope,
Danelle
Danelle Tan, 20, is a striker in the national women’s football team. The documentary series Dear Singapore, featuring Singaporeans living out somewhat unconventional dreams, will premiere next month.
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I want little girls to stop being the exception when they show up on the pitch. I want them to be seen, supported, coached, celebrated — not after they leave the country but before.
Not after they win something, but because they dared to try. We need fields where girls don’t feel as if they’re intruding. We need coaches who see potential, not difference.
We need schools that nurture sport not as a side project but as a valid, vital dream.
Because that girl at the park yesterday? She’s already choosing this life. She’s already falling in love with the game in the purest way. And if we let her, she’ll go far.
Not because she’s trying to be the next me — but because she’s trying to be fully, wonderfully herself.
With love and hope,
Danelle
Danelle Tan, 20, is a striker in the national women’s football team. The documentary series Dear Singapore, featuring Singaporeans living out somewhat unconventional dreams, will premiere next month.
Continue reading...