Women’s and girls’ football has experienced unprecedented growth over the past four years, driven by significant initiatives and the success of the Lionesses.
- The number of women and girls playing football has increased by 56% since 2020.
- Attendances for the Women’s Super League (WSL) have surged by 239% since 2021.
- Schools offering equal access to football for girls have increased significantly, with notable improvements across primary and secondary education.
- A substantial rise in female coaches, referees, and players from under-represented groups has been recorded.
Women’s and girls’ football has experienced record growth in a historic four-year period, significantly influenced by the success of the Lionesses. Since the launch of the ‘Inspiring Positive Change’ programme in 2020, a 56% increase in player participation has been observed. The Lionesses’ victories, including becoming European champions in 2022 and reaching the World Cup final in 2023, have played a pivotal role in this growth.
Attendances in the Women’s Super League (WSL) have skyrocketed by 239% since 2021, indicating a growing interest and investment in women’s football. Additionally, the Women’s FA Cup finals sold out Wembley in the past two seasons, showcasing the sport’s rising popularity and attracting larger audiences.
The initiative to offer girls equal access to football in schools has shown significant results. Seventy-seven percent of schools now provide this opportunity, breaking down to 88% of primary schools and 50% of secondary schools. This marks a 14% overall increase. Furthermore, 73 emerging talent centres have been created, resulting in a 265% growth in the talent base.
There have been considerable advancements in female coaching and officiating. The number of female coaches has seen an 88% increase, reaching 470, while the number of female referees has risen by 113%, with 14 referees now on the international list. These figures underscore the broadening participation in different facets of the sport.
The report highlights the success of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 legacy, which includes 298 new female coaches, 247 new female referees, and 34,000 more women and girls playing football recreationally. Additionally, 10,300 more girls are now playing competitively, contributing to a 127% increase in players from under-represented groups and a 112% rise from economically deprived areas.
Baroness Sue Campbell, The FA’s Director of Women’s Football, remarked on the achievements, stating: “It is remarkable what has been achieved in just four years across all levels, with more women and girls stepping forward to play, coach, officiate and participate as fans.” However, she emphasised the need for continued efforts to ensure diversity and equal access to football for all women and girls, regardless of background.
The growth of women’s and girls’ football over the past four years is historic, driven by strategic initiatives and the success of the Lionesses, with significant improvements across participation, coaching, officiating, and school access.
