How girls football and grassroots team will help Bradford youngsters

Pupils from different backgrounds and areas of the district gathered on the pitch at BEAP Community Centre.

Goals were scored by girls who already had a passion for football as well as complete novices.

It is hoped to kick off a world where girls can confidently navigate challenges, whether it's on the pitch or the game of life.

Girls were brought together through football (Image: Newsquest, Mike Simmonds)

A year five pupil, who plays a small amount of football at school, said: “I enjoyed playing football with other schools at the event and we received a medal. We were told that we could be linked to a club if we wanted to move to grassroots football.”

It is hearing stories like that which inspires Lukman Miah, the new CEO of BEAP Community Partnership.

“They were so happy, and we need to encourage this more,” said Lukman.

Found in the heart of Manningham on Cornwall Road, the centre has a range of facilities designed to inspire the community.

Medals were handed out on the day (Image: Newsquest, Mike Simmonds)

BEAP is currently developing a Bradford City Football Development Centre for girls.

It already has four Football Development Centres for boys.

Lukman said: “BEAP has developed a strategy to encourage more girls to multi-sports to develop their social, physical, and mental wellbeing.

“Traditionally a male dominated sport, women’s football is growing in popularity and influence, but the women’s game is still restricted or banned in many countries.

Teachers and pupils enjoyed the day (Image: Newsquest, Mike Simmonds)

“Even in the UK it is still relatively unusual for women to play football, with most schools restricting girls to the traditional female team sports of netball and hockey.

“The Girls Football Festival was an addition which was developed in partnership with Bradford City Foundation and West Riding FA to encourage girls in a safe space. 

“The event allowed all girls to build their self-confidence and meet people from different parts of Bradford to promote diversity.

Girls from across Bradford district gathered on the pitch at BEAP (Image: Newsquest, Mike Simmonds)

“The event had a mixture of ability, some were good enough to play for a Sunday team and others just enjoyed the day and socialising with girls they met for the first time.

“Barriers exist for girls, because of what they have been told since they were young. Coming from a Muslim community, I know the importance of making sure girls understand they can wear a hijab and still play football. What matters most is their participation.

“The Girls Football Festive was such a success we have decided to do this again very soon to encourage more schools to get involved. 

“I had a smile on my face just see diversity in action and how football allowed them happiness.”

Speaking about the festival's lasting legacy, Lee Ashforth, senior football development officer with West Riding FA, said: "The girls will have left the event with a smile on their face and hopefully an appetite to become involved more in the grassroots game."