A new FA initiative to harness the power of former England internationals in a positive and empowering way has been launched on International Women’s Day.
With the England senior team performing so well at the prestigious SheBelieves Cup in the United States, the spotlight has also fallen on a number of England greats who are continuing to play their part in promoting the game.
Whether through the player-to-coach scheme, technical or media roles, the commitment is there to ensure a pathway for those wanting to stay in football.
Baroness Sue Campbell, FA director of women’s football, said: “We’re delighted to launch our ambassador scheme.
“Football is a fantastic tool to empower girls and women to take part in sport and through that improve their self-esteem and their ability to do well in life.
“These England legends act as positive role models for our young girls both at grassroots and elite level.”
Among the former players involved are Kelly Smith, Casey Stoney, Faye White, Rachel Yankey, Alex Scott, Sue Smith, Rachel Brown-Finnis and Sophie Bradley-Auckland.
Current players have also supported the importance of The FA staying close to those who have worn the Three Lions to distinction, with Lucy Bronze, who captained England during the SheBelieves Cup, leading the way.
Bronze said: “Women don’t always have the same security after they’ve stopped playing the game so we need to make sure we’re supporting each other to secure future career opportunities in what has traditionally been a male-dominated industry.
“This scheme can only help our cause.”
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