KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- An 8-year-old girl from Minnesota was brought to tears when other students told her that girls “can’t play football.” Elena Easley told her mom, and they posted about the experience on social media, looking for encouragement. That video led to an outpouring of support fr om female sports teams worldwide.  It reached Nana Olavuo, who plays for the Kansas City Glory in the professional women’s tackle football league. The team gifted Elena and her family tickets to watch the KC Glory’s season kick-off game.  “I was really happy. Just tears started rolling down my eyes like happy tears,” Elena said.  On Saturday, Elena watched female football players in action during the KC Glory’s home opener at Pembroke Hill School.  Kansas City Royals beat Cleveland Guardians for first 2025 win She met the players and flipped the coin to kick off Saturday’s game.  “It's pretty incredible just being able to watch my baby girl get to see something that she didn't think was possible,” said Mom Stephanie Easley.  Stephanie did not expect the outpouring of support that would come from their social media video talking about the 8-year-old’s experience being told “girls can't play football.” She’s grateful for the opportunity to show her daughter that girls can and do play football.  “She really believed this little boy who kind of shoved it down saying that there are no professional women (football players), there are no women to look up to, and there's no reason to keep playing football; therefore, she should get off the field,” Stephanie Easley said. “Being able to not only show her them, but for them to know her by name, to personally talk to her, and to bring her out here and spend time. And they were genuinely excited. It’s an incredible experience.”  Elena has a message for other girls who want to play football.  “If you like sports,  go ahead and just feel what's in your heart and just believe in it and do it,” Elena said.  After the Easleys were gifted tickets to watch the KC Glory, Stephanie started a GoFundMe to help cover travel expenses from Minnesota to Kansas City.  KC G.I.F.T. hosts Pitch Black Business Summit for local entrepreneurs The goal for the fundraiser was $1,000.  It’s now reached more than $8,000. Easley told FOX4 on Wednesday that the additional money raised will go to the Kansas City Glory.  The KC Glory’s next home game at Pembroke Hill School- Ward Parkway campus is on April 19 against the Denver Bandits.  ...read more read less