A Modern Mother

Do you care about women's football? You should

My quest to raise the profile of girls' football in the UK brought me to Wembley stadium on Sunday afternoon. It was an eerily foggy day - the famous Wembley arch nearly invisible though I could sense it towering overhead.

The stadium was filled with about 200 youths, there for an once-in-a-lifetime afternoon of celeb coaching sponsored by McDonalds. Pat Jennings was teaching a group of boys in green striped jerseys how to use their body to be more effective goalies. Oh, look there's Geoff Hurst (yes, he's still around). Andrew Cole was helping a group perfect passing. Gareth Southgate (ooh, he's cute) strode by and stopped to instruct a group of girls.

Brandi Chastain talks about girls and sports (and not the bra)

I met Brandi Chastain on the plane on my way to BlogHer11. At the time, I didn't know she was possibly the most well-known women's footballer in the world, and that upon kicking the winning goal for the US Team in the 1999 World Cup, she ripped off her shirt in exaltation. (Hey, she was wearing a sports bra, which covers a lot more than many bikini tops I've seen).  

We struck up a great conversation about girls and sports and the differences in perception in the US and UK. When she heard my daughter had stopped playing football because  "it's for boys" she invited us to join her on the football pitch.

What stands out about Brandi is her dedication and enthusiasm and support for girls. Her new venture, Reach Up! is all about helping young girls reach their full potential. Watch the video below, and you'll see what I mean.

After kicking the ball around with Brandi, all three of mine have vowed to take up football again. Thanks Brandi, you are a true inspiration (and I'll think of you on those freezing December morning practices.)

 

 

 

Ladies, may I present the rowers of the regatta

I made it down to the today for my annual trip on behalf of women worldwide. Below are the photos. Enjoy!

Football: Where are all the girls?

 

My oldest (7) was very excited when we moved her schedule around this term so she could play football. She is keen on the sport and has played on and off since she was three. Her early years were spent in California, where "soccer" is as popular with girls as tap or ballet.

Imagine her disappointment when she turned up in her football boots and shin guards last Monday afternoon to discover she was the only girl among a small swarm of boys.

She didn't let that stop her. The coaches (from the local football club) were great and supported her involvement, awarding her player of the day. I was very proud watching her muck in there with all the boys. After, she ate two helping of shepherd's pie and fell asleep on the sofa...

But I have to wonder... where are all the girls?