Netherlands record-breaker Melis on parents’ support

All-time Netherlands top scorer Manon Melis helped make the UEFA Women's EURO 2017 final draw in Rotterdam last week after announcing her retirement from playing.

The daughter of former Feyenoord player Harry Melis, Manon spoke to UEFA.org at the draw ceremony about the support her parents gave her and the ex-Be Quick '28, Rosengård, Linköping, Göteborg and Seattle Reign forward shared her perspective on how UEFA Women's EURO 2017 will help the development of the game.

UEFA.org: As a player, did your dad have a role in developing your football interest?

Manon Melis: My dad played, of course, but I was really small and I can't even remember it; but after that I went to games with him and I just suddenly said: "I want to play football too." My parents were a little surprised because at that time – "girls didn't play". But they supported me in everything I did, they followed me, they watched the games and they really thought it was fun that I reached the national team and then I went to Sweden. So, they were big supporters.

UEFA.org: Will UEFA Women's EURO 2017 help to develop women's football in the Netherlands, and beyond in Europe?

Melis: I think both, yes. When people can see that women actually can play, it'’s very positive of course. And, the people in the Netherlands can go to many games. And when the Dutch team do a good job, I think it will give women's soccer a big boost. Also for the young girls, that they can see they have not only men as idols but also women.

Click on the video player above to watch the full interview.