There’s never been a better time to become an England Football Provider and to start, or grow, your club’s offer. With female football participation on the rise, women and girls up and down the country are ready to lace-up their boots and kickstart their football journey.

It’s simple to get involved in Essex grassroots female football. With a range of programmes to choose from, detailing opportunities for all ages, and with start-up funding and kit and equipment packs provided. Here’s a closer look at the programmes:

Weetabix Wildcats: Often a first step into the sport, Weetabix Wildcats offers 5-11-year-old girls the opportunity to have fun and make friends, all whilst playing football.

Squad Girls Football: A great follow-on from Weetabix Wildcats, or a place to get started, Squad Girls Football gives 12-14-year-old girls the chance to play football their way, whilst building their confidence alongside friends, old and new.

Just Play: Just Play provides a no-pressure, recreational space for those aged 16 and over to enjoy football in a relaxed, non-competitive environment.

Essex County FA Football Development Officer, Emma Burden, is encouraging clubs to start their journey in the female pathway, commenting: “The growth of female football within Essex has been brilliant and, following on from the Lionesses’ recent success, now really is the perfect time to provide football right the way through your female pathway.”

If you’re interested in getting involved in any of these programmes, please visit the England Football website to learn more and to submit your application online. You can also interact with @EssexCountyFA on Twitter/X and search for ‘EssexFootball’ on Facebook.