Charity game in memory of 'inspiring' young goalie

A charity football match is taking place to remember a "passionate" young goalkeeper who died aged 15.

Ten years ago, Rhiannon Brown was a member of Swindon Town Women's Under-16s and trained in the club's centre of excellence, when she died of a sudden illness.

Former team members will take to the pitch on 25 January to raise money for a legacy fund for young talent, set up in Rhiannon's name.

"She absolutely loved the club, she loved playing football and she loved Swindon Town," said her coach and mentor, Shane Hewlett.

"She was fearless, aggressive and took pride in being a strong goalkeeper," he said.

"She was wholly committed to it and even supported us working with the Under-10s and the Under-11s.

"The children absolutely loved it and she had actually found a vocation in life and wanted to become a coach.

"She was just a warrior; I've never really met a character like her, she was literally a one-off, she was unique," he said.

Rhiannon had been part of the girls' development programme for three years within the club's Community Foundation, which aims to increase participation in the sport for all ages.

"This is the 10th year [since her death], so we wanted to do something a little bit different and get all the girls back who played with Rhi, and some girls who are still involved in the club.

"I was never a goalkeeper, and it's very difficult to replace Rhiannon, but I'm going to have a go and put myself in her shoes just for one day," said Mr Hewlett.

Alice Telling was one of Rhiannon's teammates and also played for Swindon Town Women and trained with the Girls' Centre For Excellence.

"Rhi was the heart and spirit of any team she was part of.

"Off the pitch she was always dancing in the changing rooms and making everyone laugh but on the pitch she was determined to do her best for the team.

"She was so talented and would fight to the end of every game, always believing in her teammates. Rhi loved playing football and it was a true honour to share the pitch with her. "

Mr Hewlett added: "As a foundation we're really good at making sure we keep Rhi's name alive."

Visitors are invited to the game, which is taking place at Foundation Park at 13:00 GMT on 25 January.

Donations will be given to the Rhi's Goal legacy fund to support talented young female players in the county.

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