AS part of Girls' Football Week, Gareth McAuley paid a visit to the West Bromwich Albion Women And Girls’ Regional Talent Centre.
The Albion and Northern Ireland defender spoke highly of the RTC, which attracts girls from all around the country.
The four teams that train at the Centre are all from different age groups, ranging from under 10s to under 16s.
McAuley was impressived by the set-up, stating that he felt the girls' game had come a long way.
"I started out playing football at school and they had no girls there," said McAuley.
"It's probably not that they were not interested in football, but they were not given the opportunity or the chance, but now it is such a big thing.
"It's been interesting seeing the girls play, they are very technical in what they are doing.
"Their passing, their moving and their drills were spot on, so I am really impressed with what I have seen."
The girls were enthused by G-Mac's visit and enjoyed the opportunity to ask him about some of his experiences in the game.
"He has come to meet the girls and answer any questions that they would like answering from a professional footballer and it just gives them something to aspire to," said Ben Pollard, West Bromwich Albion Women's Centre of Excellence Manager.
"Having the players come down and meet them just demonstrates the bond between the two clubs really."
To find out more about West Bromwich Albion Women and Girls' RTC, please email ben.pollard@albionfoundation.co.uk.