Scottish Women’s Cup provides inspiration to Haddington girls

The Scottish Women’s cup visited Haddington to celebrate the inclusive nature of the women and girls’ game in Scotland.

Scottish Women’s Football CEO Aileen Campbell brought the trophy to a new club run by Haddington Athletic Community Football Club, which is open to all girls in the community between 5-12 who wish to play football.

The initiative has been a great success, nearly doubling the numbers of participants in just four weeks.

It is hoped getting to see the cup trophy will encourage the girls to keep going with their football and help grown the game even further in the area.

Commenting ahead of the visit, Aileen Campbell said: “This partnership between Haddington Athletic and the Scottish FA has been a great success and shows that many girls with an interest in football are keen to try it if they are given the opportunity. The SWF are determined that every woman and girl in Scotland should have the opportunity to get involved in football, and it’s great to see so many taking this up in East Lothian.

“The Scottish Women’s Cup is the trophy with the biggest history in the Women’s game, and I’m delighted to bring it to Haddington to hopefully provide some inspiration to these new players. I also highlighted the fact that the final is only a few weeks away at Tynecastle and tickets for under 13s are free. That means the girls can see either Celtic Women or Glasgow City lift the club for themselves.”

Scottish FA coach David Baird said: “The great response in Haddington just shows the passion for football in the community and it seems younger girls have jumped at the chance to get involved. It’s great that SWF can bring the cup and show the girls that the sky’s the limit in the women’s game, with top prizes lifted by fantastic role models.”