Bristol Rovers Women vice-captain Layah Douglas is determined to be more than just a standout footballer - she wants to be a role model, a voice for change, and a beacon of representation for the next generation.
At just 22, Douglas has already forged a path many young players dream of. Growing up in Montpelier, she spent her early years in the Bristol Academy system before joining Rovers, the club she grew up supporting on the blue side of the city. Today, she balances life as a key figure in Rovers’ promotion-chasing squad, a Show Racism the Red Card ambassador, a community coach, and a full-time job.
For Douglas, football’s power goes far beyond the white lines.
“So many people look up to football players,” she said. “When I was younger, I wanted to find an idol. I looked up to Eni Aluko - she was someone I really enjoyed watching.
Having players who represent every culture, every race, every background is so important. Football is a community, and everyone should be welcome in that community.”
Her commitment to representation has not gone unnoticed. Douglas was recently honoured in the Football Black List, recognising her incredible impact in football and the wider Bristol community.
“It’s an incredible feeling. It’s great to know that I’m being recognised for the positive work I do and to celebrate with so many amazing people. Awards like this shine a light on all the hard work that goes into making a difference.”
A Leader on and off the pitch
As part of the club’s leadership group, Douglas helped Rovers to a fourth-place finish in their debut season in the FA Women’s National League Division One South West - and they are now pushing for promotion to Tier 3.
Her leadership extends beyond matchday. Alongside her ambassador work, Douglas runs one-to-one coaching sessions and uses her platform to educate and empower young people.
The cause is personal. With Jamaican, Irish and Indian heritage, she has faced racism throughout her life.
“As a mixed-race woman, it’s something I expected to experience and I have experienced. It’s about knowing how to deal with it, who to report it to, and how to educate others.
I want to help others feel comfortable sharing their stories and seeking support. I don’t mind speaking on my experiences if it helps younger children feel heard.”
During Black History Month — and this year’s united stand across the FA WNL following racist abuse directed at Peterborough United’s Kira Rai — Douglas proudly stood alongside her teammates to send a clear message: racism has no place in football.
Family, Football, and Future Leaders
Douglas credits her family - especially her father Chris, who also serves as Gas Girls’ assistant manager - for shaping her into the leader she is today.
“My dad has coached me my whole life and helped me become the player I am. I couldn’t be more grateful.”
And now, she is paying that support forward.
“For myself, I want to be that representation for that younger player looking up thinking, ‘She’s the same culture as me - she can do it, so can I.’
Keep pushing and don’t give up. Be proud of who you are and never stop pursuing your dreams.”
Looking Ahead
Douglas believes the game is moving in the right direction — but there is still work to do.
“We’ve seen improvements in representation on and off the field, and that’s great. But there’s still a long way to go. Diversity is something we need, and having leaders from different backgrounds is the start of that. I’m proud to be part of that change.”
As Rovers continue their climb on the pitch, Douglas continues hers off it - inspiring young girls across Bristol to believe that football is their place, too.