Empowering Girls in Football: Downend Flyers and the Rise of Women's Football in the UK
The upcoming 2035 Women's Football World Cup in the UK has sparked a surge in interest in girls' football, with Downend Flyers, the largest girls' football club in the West, experiencing a significant increase in membership. The club, which boasts over 400 members across 24 youth teams, has seen a rise in players following the success of the national team in recent tournaments. The UK's bid to host the tournament has been well-received, with Bristol being considered as a potential host city.
14-year-old player Pixie highlighted the impact of the Lionesses' triumph in the 2022 Euros, stating that it inspired more players to join the club. The success of the national team has had a positive effect on the growth of girls' football, with participation manager Skye Smith acknowledging the significant impact it has had on the sport. The club now caters to players from five-year-olds to adults, with multiple teams in most age groups, relying on dedicated parents and volunteers to manage the teams.
Despite the growing interest in girls' football, Downend Flyers faces challenges such as limited pitch availability, leading to a waiting list of aspiring players. Commercial officer Jonathan Mills expressed disappointment at not being able to accommodate all the players on the waiting list, emphasizing the missed opportunity of nurturing potential future Lionesses. The Football Association reported a doubling in the number of girls playing football in the past four years, with 2.7 million registered players last season.
Nine-year-old Lani, in her second season at the club, appreciates the inclusive nature of the sport, where players from different schools come together to play on the same team. Laura Ballard, a player and under eight's coach, expressed pride in the increased opportunities for young girls in football. The bid for Bristol to be a host city for the 2035 Women's Football World Cup received support from city councillors, following the successful staging of Women's Rugby World Cup games at Ashton Gate.
The decision on the UK's bid to host the 2035 Women's Football World Cup, the sole bid submitted, will be made by Fifa in April 2026. The final selection of host cities is expected in 2030, with Leeds, Birmingham, and Nottingham also in contention. The growing popularity of girls' football and the potential to host a major international tournament like the Women's Football World Cup bode well for the future of the sport in the UK. Stay updated on the latest news by following BBC Bristol on social media platforms. Share your story ideas with us via email or WhatsApp.