When Liberty Morrice-Bartlett reflects on her footballing journey so far, there’s a clear theme that runs through it: courage.

From playing alongside boys as a youngster to pursuing her dream across the Atlantic, Morrice-Bartlett's story is one of ambition, adaptability and growth.

“I started off playing with boys when I was little and then, when I was 10, I began playing with girls,” she recalls.

“The thought of playing in the US was one that was with me from a young age, so we worked on that.

“Fortunately, I got into a couple of academies out there and, coming out of college, I played for Chelsea Foundation.

"A friend of mine left to go to the US on a scholarship and an agent helped me do the same thing. As soon as the opportunity came about to go to the States, I went.”

Her time in America proved to be a defining period both on and off the pitch at Anoka Ramsey Community College and Concordia University, St. Paul. Morrice-Bartlett admits the challenge of balancing studies and sport was unlike anything she had faced before.

“At my first school, I actually fell off with some grades, so I had to get them up. In the States, managing grades and football are so important. Balancing it was tough but I managed to get through it," she said.

"Time management, organisation skills, all of that was so important. They always say you are a student before you are an athlete. Balancing grades made me a different player, funnily enough.”

The university environment also offered Morrice-Bartlett a new perspective on the women’s game: “There are so many differences between football there and football here.

“Growing up in the UK, there weren’t other girls playing football at school so I couldn’t play in a school team format. In the US, the infrastructure is there to support you, but that’s up until you finish university. After that, there isn’t much unless you go semi-pro or professional.”

One element of football that stood out to Morrice-Bartlett was the strong sense of unity within teams.

“There’s a lot of togetherness in the US. That’s not to say we aren’t together as a squad here because we are very close, but that culture of being with each other as much as possible would help even more," she explained.

"In America, they value it so highly; even during pre-season, you’re basically with your team every other day.”

While Morrice-Bartlett embraced the intensity of the US system, she admits there were things she missed about the English game.

“Playing in the US, there were times I missed the UK’s passing and technical aspects. The US was very direct," she said.

Looking back on her time in the US, Morrice-Bartlett describes it as a life-changing experience.

“My journey was very unique and very different. Different lifestyles, learning about how people grew up. Being a student athlete is always hard to explain, but it was a massive achievement," she explained.

"I learned a lot of lessons there and even living on my own, figuring things out for myself. I went out as an 18 or 19-year-old and had to mature very quickly in a completely different environment.”

Those lessons continue to influence her today as she continues her footballing journey in England.

“Playing in a different country definitely helps as it forces you to learn a different style. My playing style has improved as I’ve got older and playing for a number of different teams has helped too," Morrice-Bartlett said.

For Morrice-Bartlett, the experience abroad wasn’t just about football - it was about personal growth and taking opportunities. Her advice to young players considering the same path is simple but heartfelt.

“Home is always going to be there, it’s not going anywhere, so I always say take the leap of faith. I have no regrets and I cherish every moment," she said.

"Do a lot of research, make connections with staff members and professors, make sure your attitude is right and take every opportunity.

"Be grateful for the people who help you get there. I had a strong support network around me, and I’m really grateful for my family and the friends who supported me.”

Now back on home soil and thriving at Brentford, Morrice-Bartlett feels she’s found a club that shares her values.

“At Brentford, I’ve never experienced anything like this,” she said.

“We have a psychologist who helps and is very hands on. Having a coach like Carly [Williams] who has strong values really helps the environment.

"The support system at Brentford is something I love and there is support everywhere, even down to the security guards knowing your names and saying hello! It massively helps the culture.”