National Women’s Walking Football Tournament
This was the very first women’s national walking football tournament and we couldn’t be more proud of the players that represented Accrington Stanley Community Trust. They played with passion and determination throughout the tournament and made history.
The tournament was held to commemorate a 100 years of the Dick Kerr Ladies, who are the most successful team in the world in the history of women’s football. On October 9th 1920 the Dick Kerr Ladies played against St Helens, at the original Accrington Stanley Football Ground at Peel Park in front of a crowd of 14000. This is one of several games they played in the East Lancashire Area.
The now modern day Stanley Ladies have followed in the footsteps of their predecessors and competed in the first womens national walking football tournament. The competition was held for ladies over 40 + and over 50+. We had two teams enter in the over 50’s category made up from ladies all over the country and even one player coming from London to take part in the tournament. They played against the likes of Preston North End Senior Whites, Rothwell Old Boars and many more.
Accrington Stanley A
Accrington Stanley B
We had Accrington Stanley A and Accrington Stanley B. Both teams played some great matches and showed a lot of confidence. Accrington Stanley B were in fine form and actually finished Runners Up of the Over 50s Tournament. They played with great skills and enthusiasm; they were a joy to watch. Congratulations ladies!
Accrington Stanley B, Runners Up of the Over 50s National Womens Walking Football Tournament.
A special mention has to go to Julie Birchall who actually won the Most Outstanding Player of the Tournament. She was chosen for 18 teams for the best all round player. This is a fantastic achievement and we couldn’t be more proud. Well done Julie!
Julie Birchall, Winner of the Most Outstanding Player of the Tournament
The tournament will now be an annual event given the success of this year. The preparations for next year will begin in September as we are looking forward to introduce a weekly Womens Walking Football Session with venues and times to be confirmed.
If you are interested in taking up Womens Walking Football it is open to everyone over 40, please contact 01254304071 or email elle.kayley@stanleytrust.co.uk .
