Father and daughter duo make team history at Gloucester City AFC

A 16-year-old girl and her dad have made history after becoming the first father-daughter duo to play for their football club.

Richard Mansell, 39, plays for Gloucester City AFC’s men’s senior team, having made his debut 20 years ago.

Now, his daughter Imogen Mansell has made the transition from the under-16s squad into the women’s senior team.

Gloucester City said Ms Mansell continuing her “family legacy” marks a “special bit of history” for the club while Richard said he was “immensely proud” of his daughter.

“Gloucester have had father and son duos that have played for the team, but as far as I know we’re the first father and daughter to play at senior level, so it’s quite an honour really,” Mr Mansell said.

“I’m immensely proud of her. She’s definitely better with both her feet than what I was at her age.

“It’s been quite cool because I can kind of give her some realistic coaching, tips and advice.”

Ms Mansell said she “loves” to have her dad nearby when she is playing.

“If I need assistance I know that I can turn to the side and he’ll be there supporting me, no matter what,” she said.

“When he’s coaching me he takes what he knows from his games and brings it into mine.”

She said he tells her “to push it [the ball] up the pitch” which is something she has now become well known for in her team.

“The last match that I played I did smash through quite a few people.

“I think I do have a simpler playing style to what my dad has,” she added.

A Gloucester City spokesperson said: “It’s a proud moment for the club to recognise Richard and Imogen as our first ever father and daughter to represent the senior men’s and women’s sides.

“It’s brilliant to now see Imogen continuing the family legacy in the women’s squad.”