Girls granted equal access to sport as Lionesses campaign pays off

This International Women's day we experienced a monumental leap forward for females within sport. Schools in England will be told they must deliver at least two hours of PE each week and that girls and boys should be able to play the same sports in lessons and extra-curricular clubs; this follows a campaign launched by England Women after their European Championship triumph last summer.

The Lionesses, the England women's national football team, have had a significant impact on females in football. Since their establishment in 1972, they have become one of the top teams in the world, consistently ranking in the top ten of FIFA's world rankings. Their success on the international stage, including reaching the semifinals of the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup, has inspired a new generation of young girls to get involved in football. The Lionesses have also helped to raise the profile of women's football, drawing greater attention to the sport and increasing its popularity. As role models, the Lionesses have demonstrated to young girls that they too can pursue their dreams of playing football at the highest level, regardless of gender. Through their success and perseverance, the Lionesses have helped to empower females in football and beyond. Winning the European Championship in 2022 has inspired female footballers of all ages.

Girls will now be granted equal access to all school sport as part of a package of measures unveiled by the government.

"Schools in England will be told they must deliver a minimum of two hours of PE each week and that girls and boys should be able to play the same sports in lessons and extra-curricular clubs." Sky Sports

Getting more females into football is important for promoting gender equality, improving health and fitness, creating economic benefits, providing role models, and building stronger communities.

1. Promoting gender equality. Football has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated sport, and getting more females involved can help promote gender equality and challenge stereotypes.
2. Improved health and fitness: Football is a great way to improve health and fitness, and encouraging more females to participate can help improve their overall health and wellbeing.
3. Economic benefits: Women's football is a growing industry and getting more females involved can lead to economic benefits such as increased revenue, job creation, and improved infrastructure.
4. Role models: By getting more females involved in football, we can provide role models for younger generations, encouraging them to participate in sport and pursue their dreams.
5. Building a stronger community: Football has the ability to bring people together and foster a sense of community. By getting more females involved, we can help build stronger and more inclusive communities.