We interviewed our Co-Founder and Club Secretary, Lisa, about what led to HGFC's formation in 2018 and how the club continues to create opportunities for more girls to play football:
Why did you decide to set up Huntingdon Girls Football Club with your Co-founders?
After successfully delivering a 16 week FA Wildcats programme in Huntingdon, it became apparent there was lots of interest in the community to continue and starting HGFC was a natural progression.
During Wildcats we created a really friendly, fun, safe environment for girls aged 5+ to learn football. This was a new opportunity for local girls to try, as we were unaware of any other provider offering the same or similar in the Huntingdon area. I was, and still am, passionate about giving girls equal opportunities. Our players and parents showed great loyalty to our efforts and so the club forming was our way of being able to continue this beyond the 16 week Wildcat programme. This all happened during 2018 when coverage of the female game was more limited and many girls had not considered football as a chosen sport. It was great receiving such positive feedback and to see participation grow week on week, at that time it was word of mouth as we had no website and no money for advertising!
What were the steps you took to start the club and did you face any challenges?
The club evolved organically from the successful delivery of the FA Wildcats programme. Our volunteers became co-founders of the new club, each taking on a required role and completing any necessary training so the club could form in line with FA regulations. Support and guidance was received from County FA so provision could continue whilst the administration was completed. Taking steps to create a club enabled the players to form teams, which allowed steady progress for players from Wildcats into community football.
As the club grew, naturally over the years there have been many challenges. I try to foresee ahead, remain positive and focus on working out solutions towards the bigger aim.
Did you have any previous experience in this area, such as a background in football or sports?
I have experience working in the public sector and corporate business with qualifications in finance, which helped with my previous role as Club Treasurer. In recent years I have dedicated time to working with young people of all ages, as a result I have learnt about safeguarding and child development. I have taken positions in a variety of voluntary roles in organisations that my children have been involved in. I have always been "sporty", I enjoy supporting England football on TV, and in my younger days I enjoyed playing hockey for school and club.
What does a typical week look like as HGFC Secretary?
Some weeks/months are busier than others but I'm responsible for club administration as and when needed. A typical week may see me responding to new player enquiries, working alongside other club volunteers and members, or externally with County FA, the league and other clubs. It is a busy role so I like to keep ahead, this includes working on club development during quieter times.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
Meeting new people and seeing player enjoyment. It's great being involved in the club's development especially at a time when interest in the female game continues to grow.
How do you create opportunities for more girls to play football?
As the women's game continues gaining exposure I hope that girls who enjoy sport in Huntingdon will give football a try. The club is always open to new ideas around increasing participation, more recently I have been involved with launching a new Saturday session for older girls to get involved.
What future ambitions do you have for the club?
For the club to continue developing and improve its facilities. To continue attracting new members and recruiting likeminded volunteers who want to be involved in creating a great club for aspiring young players in our community.
Find out more about our Wildcats football sessions and opportunities to volunteer.