Girls set to join boys in Norfolk church football

SurreyGirlsFootieTeamThe Norfolk Christian Football League is set to follow a Football Association initiative and investigate the feasibility of offering football competitions for girls and ladies as well as boys and men.
 
For over 25 years, there has been a football league in Norfolk for men with teams representing churches and other Christian organisations. Over recent years, competitions have also been created for under 10, under 12, under 14 and under 16 age groups. Girls can currently play alongside boys in the under 10 age group.
 
Now, following an FA initiative, the Norfolk Combined Christian Adult and Youth League (NCCAYL) are investigating the feasibility of offering football competitions for girls and ladies, and are keen to hear from the following:
SurreyGirlsFootieYankeySkills· Girls aged 14 or under who would like to play in the Under 12 or Under 14 leagues. (The laws allow mixed teams up to age 11 level, but not above that.)
· Girls aged between 14 and 16 who would be interested in playing in their own competition.
· Ladies aged 16 or over who would like NCCAYL to form a league, or organise a cup competition.
· Anyone who would like to form or help run a girls or ladies team, particularly if you have experience or coaching qualifications.
· Referees - or people interested in refereeing - of both genders, who would be prepared to officiate in these competitions, even on an infrequent basis.
 
League chairman, Pete Loughborough said: “This season, the Football Association asked for leagues to volunteer to test the feasibility of mixed teams up to under 14 level. Unfortunately, this request was made too late for NCCAYL to take part. But, if the offer is repeated for next season, we would like to be “on the ball” and have everything organised in time to be able to take part - with the knowledge that there is enough interest to make it feasible.
 
“NCCAYL would also like to offer competitions for girls under 16 and adult ladies teams, and will do so provided there are sufficient people would participate.
 
To express interest, or offer comments, please contact the league secretary Rob Varley at Secretary@nccayl.org.uk
 
www.ncyl.org.uk/NCFLindex.html

Pictured above is a Surrey Chapel ladies team, training with England football international Rachel Yankey in Norwich.