In the new year, Pitshanger FC began hosting a weekly football session for women wanting to get involved in football. Now, registered as a Just Play centre and hosting over 20 participants on a weekly basis, this session has created a fun and inclusive environment for women to participate in.

Demonstrating the importance of providing recreational opportunities for all women in football, Pitshanger has fostered a friendly, confidence-boosting atmosphere that champions and encourages all those involved. Providing a pocket of time away from family and work commitments, participants are given the opportunity to challenge themselves and learn new skills in the process.

Group leader Gen shared how the journey began:

“What started out as a simple question to our Club Chairman; ‘Rok, do you know of a ladies team whom I could join, as I can’t find anything locally?’ - has grown into a weekly training session with local women; having fun, learning a new skill, getting fit and for one hour in the week, not having to worry about a single thing, other than playing football and having a laugh. I have been inspired by the team’s enthusiasm and motivation to learn football!”

Invited to attend and participate in a session, Middlesex FA’s Women’s Rec Officer Kate Wells underlined the significance of the session: “It was amazing to be invited along to attend a session with such a supportive and welcoming group of women. The success of this group is a true testament to them pushing themselves outside their comfort zones. Whether trying football for the first time, or returning to the sport, coach Daniel has created a safe, encouraging environment to do so. I am very excited to follow their journey going forward.”

Due to play their first ever friendly at the end of the month, all the team Middlesex FA wish them the best of luck.

If you, or your club, are interested in running a recreational social session for women, please contact our Women’s Recreation and Volunteering Officer at Kate.Wells@MiddlesexFA.com for support.