A Needs-Led Approach to Girls’ Football

In summer 2024, a group of girls aged between 13-16 from Law, Learning and Leisure, Handsworth noticed there was a lack of accessible football tournaments for girls in their local area. To bridge this gap, the girls not only arranged their own tournament but recruited the support of system partners from across Birmingham to provide coaching and workshops for participants, led by female youth coaches.

StreetGames partnered with Birmingham City Foundation, BLESST CIC, and Birmingham United CIC to support the young people in organising the girls-only football festival which welcomed up to 80 girls, from various Bring it on Brum! holiday clubs.

The design of the event was guided by StreetGames’ national research, including insights from their Youth Insight Summary Report. This research shaped the delivery of the event, ensuring that it catered to different levels of interest and ability. The event was more than a tournament—it was an opportunity for the girls to have fun, learn new skills and build connections in an inclusive environment.

Female-only coaches and staff were critical to creating an environment where the girls felt safe and supported. Additionally, trainers or AstroTurf shoes were acceptable for participation and organisers provided assistance for any group that needed help securing equipment.

This event was part of a larger conversation about the role of girls in football and how to ensure sustainable opportunities for participation. StreetGames, in collaboration with Birmingham City Foundation and other partners, used the event as a starting point for long-term development.

Following the festival, all participants were invited to attend a women’s football match hosted by Birmingham City Foundation, providing a further opportunity to engage with the sport. This event will serve as a springboard for ongoing support, including free football sessions for girls aged 8-18 and potential coaching opportunities in the future.

Additionally, Talent ID opportunities were introduced, with direct links to the FA’s Discover My Talent initiative. Organisations were encouraged to refer players with potential, providing pathways for talented girls to further their football careers.

#HerGameToo, an organisation advocating for girls and women in sports, conducted a central workshop at the event, discussing the challenges girls face in sports and offering support and guidance. This event was also linked to StreetGames’ wider campaign to promote girls’ participation in sport, including the emerging Us Girls campaign across Birmingham.

The StreetGames girls’ football festival was a successful response to a local need, offering a safe and inclusive space for girls to play football, learn new skills and build confidence. By addressing barriers to participation and providing long-term development opportunities, StreetGames and its partners are helping to create a sustainable future for girls’ football in underserved communities.