National news
The European Women’s Football Championship
This final was particularly special as not only was it being held at Wembley Stadium, but for only the third time in the history of the competition, a British team competed for the ultimate prize and won a major football tournament for the first time in over 50 years.
It’s hard to believe that this Sunday was only the 13th UEFA Women’s Championship. Held every four years, it was supposed to take place in 2021, but due to COVID restrictions was postponed to this year. And perhaps it’s fortunate that it was, as it has been a fantastic event with some of the most remarkable football on display. Most notably by the England team who managed to beat not only the favourites, Spain, but the holders and eight times winners, Germany.
It's coming home?
Having not lost a single game all tournament and only conceding their first goal in the Quarterfinal against Spain, England have played sublimely well and been true ambassadors for the sport. On their route through to the final, England easily dispatched Austria, Norway and Northern Ireland in the group round. Then going on to beat Spain in the quarter-final and emphatically beating the second favourites, Sweden, in the semi-final with the help of a fantastic back-heel goal, securing a 4-0 victory, to book their place in the final. With both Scotland and Wales narrowly missing out on qualification by mere goal difference, England carried the weight of British expectation solely on their shoulders and they didn't disappoint.
If you happen to have been near a TV on Sunday evening (or lucky enough to have tickets to this brilliant occasion) you will have been treated to a spectacular treat. The whole team, in fact the whole tournament has been an outstanding display of courage, tenacity and athleticism.
Women’s Football
Having grown exponentially in recent years, women’s football has really taken off. Not just at professional level, but at the grass roots game too. More and more teams are springing up all over the country. The funding, competitiveness, tournaments and crowds are surging. Helped by many professional teams in the top flights of football, who have been instrumental in assisting not only women’s teams, but helping female spectators watch and enjoy the game in safety and comfort. Teams like Watford and Nottingham Forrest stay in regular contact with their female fans and help organise communities to travel to away games with transport and block bookings at matches.
Keep an eye open in September for the next issue of Podium which meets two football fans who have some inspiring stories to tell.
If you’ve been encouraged to take up the beautiful game or perhaps just have a simple kick about in the park with your kids or to keep fit, then why not contact us to see if we can put you in touch with others or provide discounted gear and equipment. Plus, if you’re looking to take your skills a little further to compete at an elite level or even train to become match officials, check out our funding pages to see how we can help.
