Kate writes a bi-weekly column for the Burton Mail. This column was originally featured in the 26th August print edition.
There can be no doubt that the Lionesses achieved history by reaching the World Cup Final in Sydney last weekend. Over the course of the competition, they have inspired a nation and secured their own legacy as game changers.
In Sunday’s Final there were some brilliant saves by Mary Earps (Mary Queen on Stops!) and a reminder as to why Sarina Wiegman is such an incredible and inspirational Manager to England’s top ladies’ squad. We are all incredibly proud of them and what they have achieved for women’s football, increasing interest in the sport and taking several leaps to giving it the same attention given to the men’s equivalent.
It is important we build on the fantastic achievement of the Lionesses' victory in the UEFA Women's Euro last year and then this year reaching the World Cup Final. There is an amazing opportunity to inspire the next generation of women's footballers by teaching girls in schools the skills and strategies from an early age.
Locally, we have the Burton Albion’s Women and Girls who, across three different teams (The First Team, the Development Squad and the U18s) coach and train local women and girls in playing football. The players are absolutely dedicated to their sport and deserve more recognition. If you have not already, I would recommending going along and watching a match of theirs at the Pirelli Stadium. You can also keep up to date on their activities by visiting www.burtonalbionfc.co.uk/women or following them on social media at @BAFCWomen.
While the result last week was disappointing, the Lionesses’ performance throughout the tournament has undoubtedly inspired countless people across the county, I hope that many more women and girls will get involved in sport, not just football, and what a legacy that would be.
