Soccer-mad Libby achieves her goal of meeting pop star Rita

AN ASPIRING young footballer got a chance to meet pop star Rita Ora - and presented the singer with a Manchester City shirt.

Libby Harvey, from Glossop, was left speechless when the club surprised her with VIP passes to Ora’s sell-out gig, as part of UEFA’s #WePlayStrong collaboration.

Fifteen-year old Libby, who takes part in City in the Community’s CityGirls programme, thought she was visiting the club to give them feedback on the programme.

So she was gobsmacked when she was presented with the tickets and given the chance to meet the singer before the show as a reward for her dedication to the sport.

The CityGirls programme provides girls aged six to 16 with the chance to take part in weekly football sessions at the City Football Academy. Coaching sessions allow participants to focus on their technical development as well as their social skills.

Libby, who also received two tickets to an upcoming City game, was presented with the prize by City captain Steph Houghton.

“Libby has been attending our City in the Community City CityGirls programme for over five years,” said Steph.

“It’s brilliant to see an artist like Rita Ora bridging the gap between football and music, and encouraging more girls to try the sport.

“Libby is such a big fan of hers and also loves playing football, so it’s amazing that #WePlayStrong and Manchester City have been able to give her this experience.”

Libby said meeting Rita Ora was a ‘brilliant experience’ and added: “Rita is someone I have watched since I was really young, and she’s so inspirational to me.

“Football is a huge part of my life, and getting this opportunity through We Play Strong and Manchester City makes me even more determined to keep playing the sport.”

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