A unique family story is unfolding in this season’s Women’s FA Cup, where a mother and daughter are competing together for fifth-tier Hednesford Town. Hazzana Parnell, 38, and her 16-year-old daughter Remaya Osbourne are both forwards for the team, creating a special dynamic both on and off the pitch.
“Seeing her beside me during matches feels incredible,” Parnell remarked ahead of their second-round fixture against Sporting Khalsa. “There are moments when the opportunity arises, and I’ll set her up perfectly, as if to say ‘this one’s for you.'”
Their joint participation represents an achievement rarely seen in football at any level. Parnell herself had a promising youth career, featuring for clubs including Birmingham City and representing England at Under-19 level before taking an extended break from the sport after her daughter’s birth.
“I stepped away from football completely and never imagined returning,” Parnell explained. “But the game has a way of calling you back. Having Remaya grow up around training sessions and matches, and now sharing the field with her, creates moments that are difficult to describe.”
The football connection runs deep in their family. Remaya’s father and uncle both played professionally, and several cousins are also involved in the sport. “Football has always been part of our household,” Osbourne noted. “I’ve never known anything different – family members have always been involved in my training and development.”
Both players have contributed to Hednesford’s cup run, with Parnell even providing the assist for her daughter’s goal in the qualifying round against Bromsgrove Sporting. Their understanding extends beyond typical teammate chemistry. “We’re completely in sync during games,” Osbourne said. “We anticipate each other’s movements instinctively.”
Parnell values the increased opportunities available to young female players today, contrasting it with her own childhood experiences. “I remember begging to join my brother’s training sessions and being allowed only for the final minutes,” she recalled. “Seeing Remaya grow up with full access to the sport makes all those struggles worthwhile.”
While Osbourne dreams of pursuing football professionally, her mother emphasizes that happiness remains the priority. “I want her to carve her own path and find joy in the journey,” Parnell stated. “If she ever decides football isn’t for her, she’ll have my full support. But her passion for the game is undeniable, and if she maintains this dedication, she could achieve remarkable things.”
As Hednesford prepares for their upcoming challenge against higher-tier opposition, both players approach the match with confidence and perspective. “We’re playing without pressure,” Osbourne commented. “Whatever happens, we’ve already accomplished something special for our club.”
Parnell acknowledges her playing days are numbered, making these shared experiences even more precious. “When I set her up for goals and watch her complete a hat-trick, the emotion is overwhelming,” she shared. “Witnessing her perform at this level brings me indescribable joy.”
Their unique partnership has strengthened their relationship beyond the football pitch. “It gives us something additional to share and discuss,” Osbourne reflected. “We’ve grown closer through this experience, and I cherish the extra time we spend together.”
