While all the mainstream media is focused on the pro’s in sport, (which is understandable because they are absolutely amazing!!!) nowhere near enough attention is drawn to the development of these players and where they started.
The role of community clubs in creating pathways for young girls:
Many girls live in less-resourced areas which means that community clubs and pathway programs that they create give them a way to be involved in sport, because if they didn’t have these there might not be much more opportunity for them to be involved. A lot of these clubs are volunteer run, so the coaches are taking time out of their day to help young girls and empower them in the best ways possible. These coaches may also have little to no training in coaching women, yet they play a vital role in sparking interest and offering opportunities for the next generation of players.
While a lot of professional leagues have been seen growing investment in the women’s game, the real change will come when grassroots programs receive better funding. Here are some reasons why:
This allows for:
- Better facilities
- More skilled coaches
- Access to better equipment for young girls
Getting the funding that we need for grassroots programs will help the development of these girls, this gives them more opportunities and pathways to explore in the future.
In so many countries, girls face cultural, social, or economic barriers to playing football. Grassroots organisations are trying to break down these barriers and provide opportunities for girls in marginalized communities which is inspiring and impactful.
While there has been a rise in the emergence of female players and coaches at the top levels, there’s still a significant gender imbalance in coaching roles, particularly at grassroots level. There’s a need for more women to be involved in coaching and leadership positions, not just as players. This is important for girls as they need female role models in and around their local club. This helps with self-confidence, a goal to be like their role models and coaches, and a sense of comfortability. Having female coaches who understand how a girls body works, and what they do best is a massive strength to add to all grassroots clubs.
Talent from these community clubs is being cultivated into the stars we see on the professional stage. So many of these professional players today, especially in smaller leagues, got their start at local clubs, many of which may not get much recognition, or as much as they should be getting.
Overall, the grassroots programs are a vital part of the women’s football ecosystem, but remain often overlooked. These programs are all about creating the potential for football to empower young women and girls worldwide.