A Beginner’s Guide to Football for Girls
Leah Williamson, Sam Kerr, Alexia Putellas and YOU. It’s never too late to discover your love of the beautiful game. But how do you kick start this journey?
Since the Lionesses became the latest European Champions, all eyes have been on the women’s game in England, meaning the desire to play is even greater. Keep reading to find out about opportunities for girls that are available as part of the FA’s ‘Inspiring Positive Change’ scheme, as well as here at the Girls Super League.
How to find a girls’ football team
All across the country there are football clubs looking for new players to join their team. Within the London FA, there are over 300 women’s and girls’ football teams of all levels, so the right team for you is right around the corner. No, literally! By clicking the link below, you can find a local girls football team near you, suitable for your age group and at a level you want to play at!
You can choose between club football, a team format with regular football training and weekly matches, or casual football, for those looking for a fun introduction to football for girls. By answering the questions as either a player, or on behalf of them, many options will appear.
For young players age 5-11 who are looking to get started in non-competitive football, the FA’s Weetabix Wildcats program is the perfect choice! Just follow the link and click to the button to find a session near you.
Girls’ football leagues in London
If competitive matches are the route you’re going down, then you’ll want to join a league. The good news is, there are plenty to choose from in London. These league formats are a great way to challenge yourself and express your passion for football in a fun environment, surrounded by others who share the same love of the game.
Since September 2021, Girls Super League has enabled young girls to play football without barriers. The league now runs on Sundays in North London, and is open to girls’ teams from U10 to U16. If you’d like to get involved as an individual or a team, you can fill out this form.
Other progressive leagues that offer girls football in London include Capital Girls League, Tandridge Youth League, Camden Islington Youth Football League and London County Saturday Youth Football. To find out which league is best suited to you, click here and scroll down to ‘Youth Leagues’.
But why should girls play football?
For many years football was not an option for young girls, but times have changed! Whether you’re dreaming of a career as a professional or looking to have fun and stay active, playing football is beneficial for any young person.
It not only provides a safe place to freely pursue a passion, but you’ll also develop your leadership and teamwork skills, as well as making lifelong friends!
So, if you want to be the next Alexia Putellas, Sam Kerr or Leah Williamson, join a league today!