The growing numbers playing women’s football in the county have increased for those in the senior age group.
More than 50 women aged 35+ across the county have shown an interest or taken part in one of the three Turn Up and Play events delivered by Cumberland FA over the past few months.
For the first time this year, women in Cumberland have the opportunity to play with and against other women aged 35 and over.
Any women aged 35 and over have been invited to play at the free events this summer, with the aim of increasing the number of playing opportunities for this age group.
Three Turn Up and Play sessions have already taken place in Carlisle and Workington with another three events planned before the end of July.
Helen Aitchison, Women & Girls Football Development Officer said: “We have seen the popularity of girl’s football increase massively over the last 15 years across the county.
“We’re delighted to be able to offer these chances for women who might have missed out on these opportunities growing up to come and play – either for the first time or come back into the game. The sessions are about fun and making the players feel comfortable whilst having a good kickabout.”
Events already organised are – in partnership with Westmorland FA Dallam School 3G, Milnthorpe on Sunday 11 June from 12-2pm; Penrith (Newton Rigg 3G Astro) on Sunday 2 July, 2 – 3:30pm and Workington (Energy Coast UTC, Lillyhall, Workington, CA14 4JW) on Sunday 23 July 2023, 12-2pm.
Helen added: “We’re also planning some evening events through the summer to see if that brings more women forward.
“A number of aged 35+ players from Allerdale Wildcats have been coming along to the events and are keen to host an evening session on Wednesday 31 May at Energy Coast UTC, Lillyhall, Workington, CA14 4JW.
A Facebook page has also been created to bring women aged 35 and over together to share information and develop a community of players and volunteers into the game.
If there are any queries or questions regarding these opportunities for women, email [email protected] or call 01900 511800.
Following the successful Turn Up and Play events Cumberland FA want to encourage local clubs to get involved to help make the programme sustainable with some kind of league provision in the future to fit the needs of women aged 35+.
