Kansas City Glory inspiring young girls to chase football dreams
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - The Kansas City Glory, the city’s women’s football team, secured a hard-fought 20-14 victory over the Texas Elite Spartans. But for one young fan in the stands, this game meant much more than just the final score—it was proof that her dream of playing football could come true.
Eight-year-old Elena Easley was given the honor of performing the coin toss before the game.
“I want to play football when I grow up,” Easley said.
One of Elena’s school classmates in Minnesota dismissed that dream and told her that girls don’t play football. Elena’s mother, Stephanie, posted the story on social media, and the outpouring of was huge.
Women’s football has been a part of Kansas City since the early 2000s, but players with the Glory know the struggles of breaking into a sport traditionally dominated by men.
Glory owner and coach Keke Blackmon knows firsthand how important representation is.
“The best part about this sport is that it has no types. Everybody can be a part,” Blackmon said. “I’ll find a place for you. I’ll find a spot for you.”
Glory Linebacker and native of Finland Nana Olavuo understands Elena’s challenges well.
“I started 18 years ago, and I was told girls can’t play football,” Olavuo said. “And here I am, 18 years later, and girls are still being told that.”
Nana refused to let that message define the next generation of female athletes. After hearing about Elena’s dream, she reached out to encourage her, ensuring the young girl knew she had a future in the sport.
“If I see there’s a little girl who doesn’t know that women’s football exists, I’ll do anything I can to make sure they see there is a future for them,” Olavuo said.
Elena’s mother, Stephanie started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for their family to make a trip to watch the Kansas City Glory play. The invitation was extended by Olavuo.
The GoFundMe raised more than $8,000, and in a heartwarming turn, the Easleys decided the money would go back to the team.
“That’s not staying with us,” Stephanie Easley said. “That’s going right back to the team. These girls have to pay to play, and they have to fundraise for their championships. That $8,000 is almost there.”
Copyright 2025 KCTV. All rights reserved.
