A teenage footballer from Newport is preparing to step inside one of the world’s most dangerous circus stunts in a bid to raise money for women’s grassroots football during Circus Extreme’s Cardiff run.
Eighteen-year-old Wattsville Ladies FC player Carly Buchanan-Thomas will take on the challenge inside Circus Extreme’s famous Globe of Death at Cardiff FC Stadium on Sunday 17 May at 7pm, following the show’s 5pm performance.
In a stunt that combines football skill with high-speed adrenaline, Carly will attempt to complete as many kicky-uppies as possible while motorcyclists race around her inside the enclosed steel globe.
The fundraising challenge aims to help raise money for new kits for both Wattsville Ladies FC and the club’s Under 8s girls team, supporting the next generation of female footballers coming through the ranks.
Carly said: “Women’s football continues to grow at every level, but grassroots clubs still need support to make sure girls have the opportunities they deserve. The younger girls in our club are the future, and giving them the right support, resources and sense of belonging is so important.”
“This challenge is definitely unlike anything I’ve ever done before, and I’m incredibly excited to take it on. It’s a bit terrifying knowing there will be motorbikes racing around me, but if it helps raise money for our club and encourages more girls to get involved in football, then it’s absolutely worth it.”
Wattsville Ladies FC plays an important role in creating opportunities for women and girls in football, with grassroots clubs often relying heavily on fundraising and community support to provide equipment, kit and development opportunities for players.
Circus Extreme, which is currently performing in Cardiff until 31 May, is known for its jaw-dropping stunts, world-class performers and adrenaline-fuelled live entertainment.
Anthony Anderson, Director of Circus Extreme, said: “At Circus Extreme, we’ve always believed in being more than just a show that visits a city — we want to be part of the communities we perform in and support local people wherever we can. When we heard about Carly’s fundraising idea and her passion for supporting women’s football, we thought it was a fantastic challenge to get behind. It’s brave, exciting, and for a genuinely worthwhile cause. Supporting young people, local clubs, and community initiatives is something we’re proud to do, and we’re delighted to help Carly take on this incredible stunt.”
Supporters who would like to donate and support Carly’s challenge can do so via her fundraising page here: https://gofund.me/ba91840eb
Circus Extreme’s ROCK IT OUT production continues in Cardiff until 31 May, featuring a packed line-up of high-energy acts including the Aqua Aerialists, Wheel of Death, Globe of Death, EXTREME® Freestyle Motocross Team, trapeze stunts, the Double Ukrainian Swing and more.
For the first time in Circus Extreme history, the production also features a full live rock band with singers and dancers, transforming the traditional circus experience into a full-scale live rock spectacle.
Whether you are an adrenaline junkie, theatre fan, music lover or simply looking for a family day out, ROCK IT OUT promises an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.
