The FA has made huge strides in creating opportunities for women and girls to play our national sport.
Indeed, football is now officially the biggest female team sport in England. Last season over female 147,000 players competed in affiliated league and cup competitions – a figure which has risen from just 10,400 in 1993, when records started.
But there is still massive growth potential and barriers to overcome. For example, from December 2007 to March 2008, Sussex County FA Community Sports Coach, Dan Lawson coached over 1,500 girls, 90% of which were not involved with a local club.
The involvement of females in football also extends beyond playing. We want to increase the number of female coaches, referees and administrators.
Underpinning all our work are some other key messages - Football is fun, it improves self-esteem, creates new friendships, and like all sport, it plays a key role in combating obesity, particularly in teenagers.
Local assistance
Sussex County FA employs an Officer who is responsible specifically for the development of Women’s and Girls’ Football. Supporting the increase in participation, progression and retention within women’s and girls’ football which includes local authority and school sessions / competitions, club development, player progression and league development.
Sussex County FA also has a Community Sports Coach, Dan Lawson, who is responsible for all delivery aspects for women’s and girls’ football contained within the county plan.
For further information please email michelle.lawrence@sussexfa.com
|