Casey Stoney has encouraged coaches, teachers, parents and volunteers up and down the country to get involved with Girls’ Football Week.
Girls’ Football Week is a national campaign aimed at raising the profile of female football and supporting The FA’s aim of doubling the number of women and girls playing the game by 2020.
Stoney is a former England and Team GB captain who has won over 100 caps.
And she fell in love with the game the very first time she kicked a ball.
She said: “I’d encourage anyone to put on any session they can during Girls’ Football Week because you’re giving someone an opportunity to do something that could possibly change their life.
“I remember going to my first summer tournament and it just sparked this desire and love for the game. It certainly changed my life.”
So what advice would Stoney give to anyone thinking about organising a Girls’ Football Week session?
“First and foremost you’ve got to make the session fun. Secondly, we all love a bit of competition so you have to make it competitive.
“It is absolutely crucial that you create sessions for everybody, regardless of ability levels. You don’t want a newcomer walking away from the game because they were unable to complete a certain drill.
“And lastly, and most importantly, you must make sure every child walks away with a smile on their face.”
Girls’ Football Week will run between 23-29 April.
Players: To take part in Girls’ Football Week visit TheFA.com/GirlsFootballWeek
Organisers: To host an event for Girls’ Football Week visit FAGirlsFootballWeek.com
