PUPILS and staff at an Ashton-under-Lyne school have been recognised for their commitment to making football a sport for all.
MP Angela Rayner presented Our Lady of Mount Carmel RC Primary with the Football Association’s Equal Access Award on a visit last week.
The Deputy Prime Minister joined the sportswomen of the future at the Holden Street school for the FA’s Biggest Ever Football Session.
To mark International Women’s Day, the nationwide initiative saw thousands of girls across the country lace up their boots and enjoy learning more about the sport commonly known as the beautiful game.
“I was so proud to visit Our Lady of Mount Carmel and see how much enjoyment the girls were getting out of learning new skills,” said Ms Rayner.
“This brilliant campaign by the Football Association sends a clear message to every young woman and girl – no matter your age, ability or background, football is for you.
“Whether it’s playing, coaching, refereeing, reporting or leading, there are so many ways you can get involved. It’s a game for all.”
Last summer, women’s and girls football received a massive boost by the announcement of a new 3G pitch and toilet block at Laurus Ryecroft in Droylsden.
It was part of a £30 million cash injection from the Government and the FA called The Lionesses Futures Fund – in response to the growing demand of females taking up the sport since England’s women’s team won the 2022 European Championship and reached the 2023 World Cup final.