Kizzy Spence: Rising from setbacks

Kizzy’s journey began in football, playing for both United and City before a serious leg break changed everything. Although she completed the rehabilitation, she admitted she was not mentally ready for trials again. Taking a year at home to recover fully, she used the time to reflect on her future and rebuild her confidence. That stillness became a turning point, allowing her to rediscover belief in herself and the courage to seek a new sporting direction.

After stepping away from football, Kizzy told her mum that she wanted to try basketball, and she instantly fell in love with it. She embraced the challenge of learning a new sport, even when the pressure she placed on herself felt intense. As a perfectionist, she always wanted to do well. Guided by her mum, a strong and independent queen, she learned to value resilience, pride, and the strength that comes from embracing her identity.

Managing life as an autistic athlete brought unique challenges for Kizzy, especially being around so many different people in one place. Balancing college, training, and personal discipline became one of her proudest achievements. She often hears people say they would never have known she is autistic, highlighting how misunderstood the spectrum can be. Instead of hiding it, she embraces it, proving that difference can be a superpower and that determination shapes every chapter of her journey.