Last Sunday saw the start of a brand new initiative organised by the Pembrokeshire Women's Football League, involving women's and girls' football teams playing against each other in a development league.
On a perfect weather day, newly created football teams from all over the county gathered at Sir Thomas Picton School, Haverfordwest, to compete against each other. For the vast majority of players this was the very first time that they had played football of any kind, but what some of them lacked in the skills, they certainly made up with enthusiasm. All the games were played with tremendous spirit, entertaining and impressing the manor spectators.
Eight teams make up the league, and are drawn from around the county. Sir Thomas Picton, Taskers and Greenhill schools have entered teams, along with Tanyard Youth Trust, Clarbeston Road, Letterston, Pembroke and Goodwick FC. The essential feature of the players is that the vast majority are new to football.
FAW football development officer Gerry Rigby said: "I am delighted with the response to this new league. It will act as a development bridge between our excellent indoor under 12s and under 14 girls' league, and our existing Women's League. Maybe next year one or two of these teams will have the confidence to join the Women's League, which is probably as high a standard as anywhere in Wales."
Texaco public relation manager Phil Thompson was also very happy with this response, saying: "Texaco are happy to continue our commitment to assisting sport in Pembrokeshire, and this development league can only strengthen women's football in the county. With five international girls football players already regularly playing in the Texaco Pembrokeshire Women's Football League, it shows what can be done if development is sustained."
Gerry added that the league is open to any female who is aged 14 or over (with no upper limit). No previous footballing experience is necessary. If anyone is interested, then please contact him on (01437) 776379 during office hours.