International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day gives us a chance to pause and recognise the women who quietly (and sometimes not so quietly!) play such an important part in the Essex Senior League.

Across our clubs, women are involved in so many different ways. Some are club secretaries, some sit on committees, some run the social media accounts, organise matchdays, are PA announcers, help behind the bar, sell programmes, manage the admin, or simply turn up week after week to support their team.

Many juggle football alongside full-time jobs, families and everything else life throws at them.

It’s easy for these contributions to go unnoticed, because in non-league football everyone just gets on with what needs doing. But the truth is, our league wouldn’t function without the time, commitment and care that so many women give to their clubs.

There is also another group of women who deserve recognition, the wives, partners, mums, grandmothers, daughters, sisters and friends behind the volunteers, players, coaches and managers. The ones who give up evenings, weekends and family time so that others can train, travel and play. The ones who organise home life around fixtures, postponed matches and cup runs.

Non-league football asks a lot of time from those involved, and that support at home is often what makes participation possible. It may not always be visible on a matchday, but it is absolutely part of the fabric of our game.

International Women’s Day isn’t just about recognition, it’s also about encouragement. If you’ve ever thought about getting involved in your local club, whether that’s helping on matchdays, supporting behind the scenes, or taking on a more formal role, please don’t feel that football isn’t for you. It absolutely is.

There’s something special about non-league football, it’s welcoming, it’s hands-on, and there’s always an opportunity to get involved. You don’t need a particular background or a long CV in football. If you’re willing to help and be part of a team, there’s a place for you.

To the women already giving their time to our league, thank you.

And to those who might be considering it, we would be delighted to welcome you.

Non League Paper on sale now £2.50 read Michelle Dorling's Article on Page 7 to find out what's happening at an Essex Senior League fixture near you.

Thenonleaguefootballpaper.com