The last 3 years has seen girl’s football consolidate its position as one of the most popular sports in the county. There are nearly 50 club teams in Cumberland playing regular football from Under 10’s to Under 16’s taking part in local leagues and County Cup competitions.
With the introduction of the Tesco Cup for Girls at Under 14 and Under 16, teams now have the opportunity to represent the County in Regional and National competitions.
Following the success of the County Under 16 League and the Umbro Fives competition, 2008/09 sees the first season of the inaugural Cumbria Women’s League. 7 teams have entered and are now providing girls and women over the age of 16 with regular local football for the first time.
School Leagues are continuing with new age groups being included for the coming year. Taster sessions and School-Club link programmes will be continued to enable a smooth transition in the player pathway for girls moving from schools to Charter Standard Clubs.
During season 2007/08 Cumbria was granted with a licence to run a part time Centre of Excellence; girls from across the County took part in a coaching and games programme. The coming season sees the jump to provide a full time Centre coming into line with the other 51 Centre’s in the country.
For further information, please contact Helen Aitchison, Girls & Women’s Football Development Officer, on 01900 872310 ext. 21, or e-mail Helen.Aitchison@CumberlandFA.com