Fairness in football #LetGirlsPlay

PE teacher Miss Beesley is determined to ‘let girls play’ football as part of a national initiative.

England Football and Barclays say ‘it’s everyone’s game’ and ‘want every girl to have equal access to football in school and in the community in 2024.’  They held a ‘Biggest Ever Girls Football Match’ in March nationally encouraging as many girls as possible to play football on that day.

Miss Beesley made sure the Priory girls had access to part of the 3G pitch.

She said: “It’s about changing views. A lot of the time the 3G pitch is seen as a boys area so it’s making sure girls can get on the AstroTurf and play football. It’s making sure everyone is treated equally when playing sports and given equal opportunities.

"The girls are so enthusiastic, especially the current Years 7 and 8, who want to play football and we want to encourage them so they can play more games and there are more leagues for girls locally."

Priory's Year 10 girls football team have been together since Year 7 and have reached the quarter-finals of the Lancashire Cup.  The girls play for a range of teams, including Rochdale AFC, Penwortham Town and Buckshaw while, at Lostock Hall, they are coached by former Priory pupil Jazmin Attwood, who captained Lancashire Under 16s to national final victory when at school.

Year 10 Caitlyn said: “Boys sometimes say girls can’t play football but we want to show them we can.”

Year 7 Lola said: “I wouldn’t say I am the best at football but I enjoy it. I support Liverpool and have been to Anfield many times. I also enjoy watching the women’s games. My friend Willow is probably better than a lot of the boys!”

Willow, who plays centre midfield for Lostock Hall, said: “I do get annoyed when the boys are on the 3G pitch and won’t always let us on, I want more opportunities for women to play football.”

Girls from all year groups may access the 3G pitch at break and lunch.  Supervision is provided by Mr Eastham and Mr Gee, and girls are welcome to play against each other or the boys, either will be accommodated dependent on numbers.

Picture - Year 10 football team