Last week saw nearly 40 women graduate from our new Football for Absolute Beginners (FAB) programme. The project, which was launched in June, introduced football to women of all ages who had never played before. FAB was designed to address many of the barriers that women face when accessing physical activity.
On the pitch the project focussed on introducing the basic skills of football, learning the rules of the game and then moved onto playing small sided games. Led by a coach, it was clear to see how the players enjoyed building on their skills each week.
The biggest emphasis though, was on having fun and making new friends in a positive and welcoming environment.
One participant said “This has been such a positive experience for me – I wouldn’t have dreamt of doing a team sport as I’m super unfit but this programme has made it accessible for all and in a genuinely supportive environment.”
The end of course was celebrated with the members of FAB playing with the Bromley Belles in a mini tournament. It was a fantastic evening seeing so many women playing recreational football on the stadium pitch. Our evening then moved onto Broomfields where the players enjoyed some well deserved food and refreshments before proudly collecting their medals.
Andrea Ellis, Women and Girls’ Development Officer commented “I am exceptionally proud of all the women who have taken part in this project. Many of them have loved watching football for many years but have never had the opportunity to learn how to play. Starting something new can be nerve-wracking but they have shown amazing resilience and determination. We can’t keep them off the pitch now!
Projects like this show the Trust’s commitment to offering football for all, regardless of age, gender or previous experience”.
Many of the players will now join the Bromley Belles, a women’s recreational football session where women of all abilities can come and play in a safe and non-judgemental environment.
For more details on recreational football for women please contact andrea.ellis@bromleyfc.co.uk