A grassroots football manager has spoken out in support at the latest campaign aimed at removing discrimination around women’s football.
Dearne and District Ladies manager, Jack Crookes, has spoken about the benefits of other campaigns such as #KeepingSCORE and #HerGameToo campaigns.
The #KeepingSCORE campaign, a social media-driven movement aiming to equip women in sports with the knowledge and resources to stand up for themselves against discrimination, has been highly relevant over recent months.
Crookes said: “It is important these campaigns are in place to raise awareness of the women’s game. It can reassure women that they do have a place in football which is very important.”
In a study from womensagenda.com, almost half of all social media comments directed towards sportswomen are sexist, sexualised, belittling or otherwise negative in nature.
The team, who currently sit fifth in the Sheffield & Hallamshire Women and Girls league, have been managed by Crookes for three seasons.
Speaking from his experience in management, Crookes added: “In the past, negative remarks have been made on social media regarding a players’ appearance.
“I’ve also heard comments from the sidelines. For example, someone might say ‘a bloke could kick that further’, or when my goalkeeper takes a goal kick, there might be a comment like ‘they can’t kick that very far.’”
Bethany Clements-Patrick, from Sheffield Wednesday Women’s Supporters Group, said: “It has been really rewarding to emphasise the work of women around football in different ways, as well as draw attention to charities and initiatives.
“After eleven months of the Women’s Supporter Group (WSG), we have been able to demonstrate the role that fan groups play with meet ups and consultations, as well as using our community to highlight women’s issues in and outside of football.”
High-profile and prominent figures have too been vocal in supporting the women’s game.
Former professional footballer Ian Wright has shone a light on women’s football through his punditry of domestic and international games, with Crookes encouraging more ambassadors for the women’s game.
Dearne and District Ladies receive support from the club, as well as the men’s teams, sharing facilities including pitches, dugouts, stands and off field resources.
“We have great support from the club,” said Crookes. “The club really push for our success, which we are incredibly grateful for.”
The record attendance during this seasons campaign is 132 spectators, with Crookes adding: “Three years ago we just had a man and his dog watching, so we’ve come a long way.”
Dearne and District ladies are back in action this weekend in a mid season friendly against Scawthorpe Ladies. Coverage of the game can be found via the club’s Twitter here.