Sian Bradley, a self described ‘middle aged mum of three’ has been given the opportunity to travel to Sweden to represent Wales in walking football thanks to a sponsorship by Prichard Holdings.

Prichard Holdings held a competition in May to sponsor a community athlete and fund them to the tune of £250. Bradley – a goalkeeper – won, with the winnings funding her trip to Sweden to represent Wales in the Walking Football World Cup in July.

“What an unforgettable week in Sweden – honestly one of the greatest experiences of my life!” Bradley said to Prichard.

“Got my first ever cap for my country, started with a nervy draw vs Sweden, took some tough hits (Norway were unreal), but then we found our rhythm – big wins against Scotland, Poland & Australia, and an epic fightback vs Italy.”

Bradley’s highlight of her trip was a last-minute penalty save against England to secure a historic win. “I’ve got goosebumps just thinking about it!” she added.

Wales secured their best ever result at the World Cup, coming third, having made the semi-finals.

This sporting success is made all the more impressive in the context of Bradley’s recent health issues.

“7 years ago, I was having surgery to remove a rare aggressive cancer in my breast called a Phyllodes Tumour,” Bradley said.

“In my darkest times, I didn’t think I would be here today, I didn’t think I would be here to see my children grow. But, I am here, I am one of the lucky ones and I am so happy to have the opportunity to live my dream and for my children to have the chance to watch their Mum play for Wales in a World Championship.”

Having been able to grant Bradley her wish, Prichard added: “What an amazing achievement Sian and we are so pleased we could help you get to Sweden.”

Sportin Wales’s coverage of Wales’s World Cup qualifying campaign is proudly sponsored by S4C. You can watch all of Wales’s matches this year for free on S4C and S4C Clic.

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