The Lioness Effect: Doubling of England’s Women and Girls’ Football Teams in 7 Years
In a remarkable development for women’s and girls’ football in England, BBC analysis has revealed that there are now twice as many registered female football teams as there were seven years ago. The largest increase occurred in the 2022-23 season, following the success of the Lionesses in Euro 2022, with almost 1,500 new teams registering. This growth has been met with excitement and amazement from players like Manchester United forward Ella Toone, who scored in the Euro final. Toone expressed her gratitude for having a girls’ team nearby while growing up, and she believes that the increased visibility of women’s football, including the Lionesses’ matches being televised, has had a significant impact on inspiring young girls to get involved in the sport.
Role Models and Inspiration
Ella Toone, who reached the Women’s World Cup final with the Lionesses last year, highlighted the importance of having female role models in women’s football. She shared her own experience of not having access to female football players to look up to when she was younger, emphasizing how different the landscape is now. Toone stated that with the Lionesses and Women’s Super League (WSL) games regularly featured on television, girls now have female role models they can admire and aspire to be like. This increased visibility has undoubtedly played a significant role in inspiring girls to pursue their passion for football.
The Impact on Young Players
The rise in women’s and girls’ football teams has had a positive impact on young players across the country. Keira Cross, a 14-year-old player for Morecambe Girls FC junior team, believes that the Lionesses’ success has shown that girls can play football too. Cross has been with her club since she was six years old and expressed how joining a girls’ team made her feel like she was part of a community of like-minded individuals. Her teammate, Iris Benson, who is also 15, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the opportunity to make new friends and feel welcomed within the football community.
The Numbers Speak Volumes
Data provided by 31 county football associations in England and the Channel Islands reveals the significant growth in women’s and girls’ teams. There are now 12,150 registered teams, a substantial increase from the 5,632 teams recorded in the 2016-17 season. Every age level, from grassroots to professional, saw an increase in participation. While some county FAs did not provide figures and some teams may have stopped playing midway through a season, the overall trend is clear – women’s and girls’ football is booming.
Rising Interest in Women’s Football
The interest in women’s football is not limited to grassroots participation alone. Elite women’s football clubs have experienced a surge in popularity and revenue. According to Deloitte’s analysis in January, the average revenues of the top 15 women’s football clubs in Europe increased by 61% to £3.7m (€4.3m). Barcelona leads the pack with £11.5m (€13.4m) in revenue, followed by Manchester United with £6.8m (€8m). The growth and success of women’s football have been attributed to the achievements of the Lionesses, who have paved the way for future generations.
A Commitment to Accessibility
Baroness Sue Campbell, the FA’s director of women’s football, acknowledges the transformative impact of the Lionesses’ success on the growth of women’s and girls’ football. She believes that their triumph in Euro 2022 presented a unique opportunity to reshape the future of the game. Looking ahead, the FA’s priority is to ensure that football is accessible to all women and girls, regardless of their background or circumstances. The aim is to provide equal opportunities and the benefits that come with participating in football.
The Future of Women’s and Girls’ Football
The doubling of registered female football teams in England over the past seven years is a testament to the growing popularity and acceptance of women’s and girls’ football. With more female role models, increased visibility, and a commitment from the FA to make the sport accessible, the future looks bright for women and girls who aspire to be a part of this beautiful game. As the Lioness effect continues to inspire and empower, it is only a matter of time before women’s football reaches new heights in England and beyond.