Empowering the Next Generation: The Rise of Girls-Only Football Sessions

The landscape of youth football is evolving, with girls-only football sessions playing a crucial role in increasing participation and skill development among young female players. These dedicated sessions provide a structured and supportive environment, ensuring that girls have the opportunity to develop their technical abilities, confidence, and passion for the game. Sportivos is proud to contribute to this movement by offering high-quality coaching and a clear pathway for girls aspiring to excel in football.

Over the past five years, girls’ participation in grassroots football in England has seen remarkable growth. In 2020, there were approximately 3.4 million women and girls playing football, reflecting a 54% increase since 2016¹

Building on this momentum, the Football Association’s ‘Inspiring Positive Change’ strategy, launched in 2020, has led to a 56% increase in the number of women and girls playing football over the last four years. ² This surge underscores the growing popularity and accessibility of football among young female players.

In Scotland, women’s and girls’ football participation has seen significant growth over the past decade. According to the Scottish Football Association (SFA), the number of registered female players reached 22,977 in 2023, marking the second consecutive year of record participation. ³ This reflects a substantial increase from previous years, with reports indicating that the number of women and girls playing football in Scotland doubled over a five-year period, rising from 7,126 in 2014/2015 to 14,071 in 2018/2019. ⁴

This upward trend underscores the growing popularity and accessibility of football among female players in Scotland.

The Importance of Girls-Only Football Sessions

Historically, football has been a male-dominated sport, often leading to barriers for young girls who wish to participate. Research has shown that many girls feel more comfortable and engaged in single-gender sports settings, where they are free to develop without the pressure of competing against boys. These sessions not only focus on improving technical skills but also on fostering teamwork, resilience, and self-confidence – key attributes that extend beyond the pitch.

The Benefits of Dedicated Girls-Only Sessions

1. Enhanced Confidence and Participation – In mixed-gender environments, some girls may feel less inclined to take risks or assert themselves. A girls-only space fosters a sense of belonging and encourages greater self-expression on the field.
2. Greater Skill Development – With more ball time and personalised coaching, players can refine their technique at a faster pace, setting a strong foundation for future progression.
3. Positive Role Models – Having female-led coaching teams provides young players with relatable and inspiring figures, reinforcing the idea that women can thrive in football, whether as athletes, coaches, or officials.
4. Structured Pathway to Competitive Play – Right now, local girls’ teams start at Under 8s, leaving a developmental gap for younger players. Our goal is to bridge this gap and equip girls with the technical and tactical skills, confidence, and a love for the game, so they’re ready to step into a team when the time comes.
5. Long-Term Engagement in Sport – By cultivating an enjoyable and inclusive footballing experience from an early age, these sessions contribute to higher retention rates in sport, promoting lifelong fitness and well-being.

Sportivos Girls’ Football Sessions – Now Open for Bookings!

We are delighted to launch our first-ever Girls-Only football sessions, commencing on April 6th. Led by experienced female coaches, these sessions are designed to provide a fun and engaging environment for girls, eager to develop their footballing abilities.

Click here to book – www.portal.sportivos.franscape.io/class-overview/93

References

¹ telegraph.co.uk; ² The FA; ³ scottishfa.co.uk; ⁴ The Sunday Post