Houghton Kepier Sports College was the venue for this year’s annual Girls Football week. The Event was aimed at encouraging more young girls to get involved in the fastest growing sport in the UK.
The event itself included giving the girls a ‘taster’ in all aspects of the game such as learning new skills, SAQ sessions and small sided games. Girls without clubs were encouraged to join local teams in their area. The event was supported by many local girls clubs who provided quality instruction for all participants.
Also present were many of the FA Cup final and promotion winning squad from Sunderland Women FC. The ladies participated in some of the exercises and posed for pictures while answering many questions put to them by participants and fans.
The highlight of the event
was the appearance of three former Sunderland players and current England Senior players Stephanie Houghton and Carly Telford of Leeds
Carnegie Ladies FC and Jill Scott of Everton Ladies FC. They spent time signing autographs answering questions and joining in. Carly
Telford kept goal during a shooting exercise while Jill Scott put on a juggling showcase keeping the ball off the ground while answering
questions and posing for pictures.
Event co-ordinator Lindsey Robinson (Women’s and Girls football development officer, Durham
Sport) commented ‘getting more girls into football is crucial to the development of the game in all aspects. In partnership with the
FA we’ve managed to get many girls into clubs for the season coming. It was a huge success.’
If you would like further information
on the event or girl’s football contact Lindsey Robinson on 07970 277882 or e-mail: lindsey.robinson@durham.gov.uk