Arsenal captain Leah Williamson has been announced as a National Year of Reading ambassador following the official launch of the 2026 campaign at Emirates Stadium.

The Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson unveiled the Go All In initiative on January 13, positioning reading as a gateway to enhancing passions across all walks of life.

Williamson joined a stellar lineup of ambassadors including author Julia Donaldson, illustrator Axel Scheffler, poet Jackie Kay, and several other prominent figures from literature and public life. The event marked a significant moment for literacy promotion in the country, with the campaign centred on the message that reading can deepen enjoyment of whatever people already love.

A Message From the Pitch

Speaking at the launch, Williamson drew parallels between football and reading. She said the National Year of Reading represents a chance to fully commit to personal passions through literature in all its forms. The Arsenal skipper encouraged people to seize the opportunity by picking up books, listening to audiobooks, or diving into articles related to their interests. Her involvement underscores how sports figures can champion reading beyond their professional domains.

Resetting Reading Culture

Joanna Prior, chief executive of Pan Macmillan and chair of The National Literacy Trust, described the launch as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform how Britain views books.

The ambition extends beyond traditional reading spaces, aiming to make literature accessible in communities, schools, and even on football pitches. Prior emphasized stripping away pressure and stigma around reading, making it relevant and enjoyable rather than obligatory.

The campaign represents a coordinated national effort to boost literacy rates and foster a genuine love of reading across all demographics and age groups throughout 2026.

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West Ham United have completed the signing of England youth international defender Ria Bose from Portuguese Liga BPI club Sporting CP. The 19 year old has signed a two and a half year deal with The Hammers, becoming their second January signing after Estelle Cascarino arrived on loan from Juventus.

Bose spent her youth in the academies at Brighton and Hove Albion and Chelsea before starting her senior career in Portugal with Sporting CP. She made her senior debut in October 2024 and has represented England at various youth levels up to and including Under 20 level.

Attacking Full Back Brings Energy

Speaking after joining West Ham, Bose expressed her excitement at the move. “I’m so happy to be joining West Ham United. I know that West Ham is going to help me progress as a player. This is a new beginning and the next step in my career. I bring a lot of energy. I’m an attacking full back that likes to get up the pitch but I also pride myself on my defending too.”

The teenager added: “West Ham is a big club with a rich history. It’s an exciting project here which I’m looking forward to being a part of. I can’t wait to get started.”

Reinforcements for Relegation Battle

West Ham sit second bottom of the WSL table with just five points from 12 matches under new manager Rita Guarino. The Italian replaced Rehanne Skinner in December and has been active in the January transfer window to strengthen her squad.

Bose’s arrival provides competition and depth at full back as The Hammers fight to avoid relegation. They are two points above bottom placed Liverpool with only one team facing the drop this season as the WSL expands to 14 teams next campaign.

Also read: Estelle Cascarino Denied West Ham Debut After Referee Stops Her Over Earring Rule Violation

Sam Coffey has officially joined Manchester City from Portland Thorns on a contract running through summer 2029. The WSL leaders will reportedly pay the Thorns a transfer fee of $875,000 with potential add-ons according to ESPN, securing one of the NWSL’s top midfielders.

Coffey said in an emotional goodbye video posted by the Thorns that playing in Europe has long been one of her goals. “For as long as I’ve kicked a ball, I’ve always dreamed of playing professional soccer in Europe, and it’s something I simply have to pursue. I would never forgive myself if I didn’t go try,” she said in a video filmed at Providence Park.

Thorns Lose Talisman and 2024 Captain

The move leaves Portland without their talisman and 2024 captain. During a turbulent season in terms of injuries and maternity leaves, Coffey started all but one match and was a stabilizing force in midfield. She was named to the league’s Best XI for the third time in four years.

Manchester City are chasing their first title in a decade and lead England’s Women’s Super League by six points over Chelsea after defeating Everton on the weekend to open the second half of the season. Coffey has never been on a side that finished top of table but was a rookie when the Thorns won the 2022 NWSL Championship.

Investment in Women’s Game Attracts Star

Coffey also gave a nod to Manchester City as a club that has recently increased investment in the women’s team. “I think it’s also a place that just has proven its investment in women’s soccer and being a part of this movement that is going on. Seeing the facilities, the support the team gets and all the efforts they are putting in for the women’s side is such a huge and positive side and something I’m honored to be a part of.”

Also read: Renee Slegers Signs New Arsenal Contract Until 2029 After Champions League Glory