Sisters Who Shine: Isabella & Gabriella Solari – The Future of Stephanian Ottery AFC

At Stephanian Ottery AFC, football is more than just a game, it’s a family affair. Two young stars, Isabella (Bella) and Gabriella (Gabi) Solari, are proving that passion and teamwork start early. Bella plays for our U9 team, while Gabi lights up the U7 squad. We caught up with the sisters to learn about their journey, their favorite moments, and their big dreams.

How It All Began

Bella:

“I attended one of my school friend’s matches who plays for Stephs and I enjoyed the game. Honestly, I inspired myself 🤣 it’s something I really enjoyed watching, especially since my dad is a Liverpool fanatic.”

Gabi:

“I was on the field every weekend because my sister plays for Stephs. My dad inspired me to join the club.”

What Makes Stephs Special?

Bella:

“The people, it’s like one big happy family.”

Gabi:

“It’s all about having fun and being with my team and coach Kathy.”

First Goals & Special Moments

Bella:

“My first goal assist! I haven’t scored a goal yet, but I’ve made some amazing and match-winning assists. The best one was our away game against Fish Hoek—I ran all the way up the line with the ball, got tackled by three players who couldn’t stop me, and then passed into the box for a teammate to score!”

Gabi:

“Yes!! I scored two goals on my birthday this year. We came from 2-0 down to win that game!”

Favorite Teammates

Bella:

“I can’t choose just one—they’re all amazing. Being the only girl on the team makes me feel like a princess because they’re all protective over me ☺️.”

Gabi:

“Kyra and Sydney, because we’re the only girls on the team.”

Positions & Playing Style

Bella:

“Midfield and striker, I love running up and down and tackling all the boys. Dynamite comes in small packages!”

Gabi:

“Striker and defender, as striker I like to run and tackle, and as defender I keep the ball away from our goalkeeper.”

Dream Numbers

Bella:

“Number 8, my dad says I’m a mini Stevie G 🙌.”

Gabi:

“Number 11, because Mohamed Salah wears it.”

Role Models & Big Dreams

Bella: “My coaches and my dad.”

Gabi: “Mohamed Salah.”

If you could play against any famous team?

Bella: “Real Madrid or Chelsea.”

Gabi: “Barcelona.”

Future goals?

Bella: “To become a professional women’s footballer and play overseas.”

Gabi: “To play for Liverpool one day.”

Pre-Game Rituals

Bella:

“I don’t eat before games, but after, I love the club’s samoosas and pies if they have stock!”

Gabi:

“No snack, but I love listening to my hype songs, Rocky and Freddie Mercury’s ‘Don’t Stop Me Now.’”

One Word to Describe Your Style

Bella: Dynamic!

Gabi: Fearless.

Funniest Moments

Bella:

“Running towards the ball in the box, trying to shoot, and kicking nothing but air 🤣.”

Gabi:

“Falling over my own feet during a match 🤣 silly me!”

Final Whistle

Bella and Gabi are proof that passion, family, and fun are at the heart of football. Watch out for these two they’re fearless, dynamic, and ready to take on the world!