Young Women’s Football Project
West Ham United Football Club partner with the Council to support girls through football
The Young Women’s Football Project, launched in March, has combined football coaching with mentoring and support to empower and develop young women at School 21, a Stratford secondary school.
The project, led by female football coaches and female youth workers, aims to tackle the societal pressures women face every day, and removes the barriers that prevent some young women from getting involved in sport.
The team has competed against other schools and some team members have been invited to trial for West Ham United Women’s Academy.
Chelsie Sparks, Youth Worker for Newham’s Youth Empowerment Service, said: “As well as improving their football skills, the project promotes personal development.
“Young women develop confidence, resilience, teamwork and leadership skills and are challenged to step outside of their comfort zone. Participants also experience a sense of belonging and togetherness.”