The Lionesses have successfully secured an investment of £30 million from the Government and the Football Association to develop opportunities for women and girls in football. This initiative comes on the heels of England’s triumphant win at Euro 2022 and their upcoming participation in the World Cup final.
A significant portion of the funding, £25 million, will be provided by the Government, with an additional £5 million contributed by the FA. The investment will go towards building 30 new state-of-the-art 3G pitches and accompanying facilities, which will cater specifically to women’s and girls’ teams.
These new facilities are a part of the Government’s commitment to drive up participation and meet the growing demand for women’s football. They will also include dedicated female changing rooms, shower facilities, and accessible toilets, ensuring that women and girls have the support they need to pursue their football dreams.
England defender Lucy Bronze expressed her excitement about the funding, acknowledging the belief and support shown by the government. She emphasized the impact that the success of the national team has had, not only on the football pitch but also in inspiring women across the country. The funding will enable more women and girls to access the sport and live out their football dreams.
Earlier this year, the Euros-winning squad wrote an open letter to the Government, urging them to provide girls with equal access to football and school sport. The team recognized the platform they have and the importance of using it for good, as highlighted by Lucy Bronze. The Government’s response with the £30 million investment is a concrete step towards building on the legacy created by the success of the Lionesses.
Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer stressed the importance of the Lionesses Future’s Fund, citing the need to support women’s football both at the grassroots and international levels. The investment aims to build a pipeline of talent and provide essential facilities to ensure the continued growth and success of women’s football in the UK.
The Football Foundation, the UK’s largest sports charity, will oversee the placement of the new pitches in areas where the need is greatest. The CEO of the Football Foundation, Robert Sullivan, emphasized the focus on prioritizing women and girls’ access to the facilities and ensuring that they receive the highest level of support and usage.
The future of women’s football in the UK is looking bright, with this significant investment paving the way for increased participation and support. The commitment shown by the government and the FA reflects their recognition of the impact and potential of women’s football. This funding will not only benefit current players but will also inspire the next generation of female footballers, creating a legacy that extends beyond the pitch.
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