Meet Ewie

That pattern — confidence dropping around 13 — is one of the most common things coaches describe, and one of the most important to catch early. The research is consistent: girls' self-esteem in sport tends to dip sharply around this age, often tied to puberty, shifting social dynamics, and how they see themselves relative to others.

Has anything changed socially in the squad? That quiet withdrawal is often about belonging rather than confidence in her football. Worth a one-on-one check-in somewhere low-stakes — not mid-session. Just opening the door.

What's she like with the other girls at training?

Socially still connected — that matters. What you're describing sounds more like a mastery climate problem. She's lost the psychological safety to try and fail in front of the group. That peaks hard around 13–14 as girls become acutely self-conscious about being watched.

Give her tasks that aren't high-visibility. Small-sided work, decision-making roles where the whole group isn't watching. And when she does try something — even if it doesn't come off — name it specifically. Not just "well done," but "good decision to go for that."