‘You’ll meet players that you will call your sisters’ – challenging yourself in the SWFL

The Scottish Women’s Football League (SWFL) is so much more than the fifth tier of the women’s game in Scotland. It ranges from highly ambitious clubs playing seasoned veterans of the game to newly-formed teams of young players newly aged out of the youth game, or women who have returned to football and looking for a competitive step up from the recreational game.

If you think of a parallel with the men’s game, it comprises the equivalence of the West of Scotland fourth division to the Lowland Leagues and everything in between.

Just like in youth football, it’s important that players have opportunities to compete at the level they are at, which is why the ScottishPower Regional League Plate is such an important competition. It gives the clubs eliminated early from the league cup an opportunity to compete for silverware.

SWF’s Operations and Competitions Manager Kirsty Fowler engaged with the four captains from the ScottishPower Regional League Plate semi-finalists about the importance of the competition and their experience of it, and any advice they might have for players coming into senior football.

Alloa Athletic’s Devyn Thompson described reaching a semi-final as a “pinch me moment” which came with a range of emotions.

“The plate gives us the opportunity to showcase our squad’s talent all over Scotland,” she said.

“There’s teams we wouldn’t normally play, which gives us better experience to bring back to league action.”

For Thompson, travelling to games from Stonehaven to Ardrossan has added to the experience.

“We’ve loved the away games, bringing supporters with us along the way and created memories that will last forever,” she added.

For Penicuik Athletic skipper Lucy Langford, the plate has provided a team in only its second season a chance to prove themselves.

“Since Penicuik Athletic Women formed, we’ve been writing history, she said.

“The plate is important to our team because we’ve been given a second chance to compete for a trophy against other great national teams. As a newly-formed team, it provides us with valuable experience in playing competitive games. Winning the matches in the plate shows we can perform well, which boosts morale/confidence. Hopefully we can bring a trophy home.”

Buckie Ladies are also newcomers to the SWFL, and for skipper Rebecca McMillan, facing teams they had “little to no information on” was reward for the hard work of the multiple Highlands and Islands trophy winners.

“Of course, the Plate is important as it allows us to play more football. Cup competitions also give us opportunities to play against teams we would not meet in the league. Having more trophies to fight for is always a good thing,” she advises.

When it comes to travel, Jeanfield Swifts were quick to point out that the ScottishPower Regional League Plate actually offered an opportunity to travel to closer teams, having spent their first season in SWFL North making long trips to places like Buckie and Ross County.

All the semi-final captains were quick to encourage other players to test themselves in the SWFL, as a great opportunity for personal development.

“If you’re thinking about joining a team, make contact and get along to a training session, you will not regret it. Playing football helps you as a person on/off the pitch,” said Langford.

“You’ll meet a great group of people of various ages, improve your mental/physical health and become more confident.”

But players should be prepared for a challenge, she adds.

“Be prepared work hard and learn.  The standard is good in all teams across the league and cup matches. Every game is a chance to improve, so listen to coaches, take on feedback, and keep developing your skills. Overall, work hard, enjoy it, support your teammates, and keep improving—that’s the best way to get the most out of playing in the SWFL.”

Thompson also recognised the challenge.

“⁠At this level of women’s football you have to be ready for the physicality and mental level you have to be at,” she said.

“Everyone has opinions on this league. Personally, I feel it’s sometimes more challenging than leagues above. Treat every game as if it’s your last, play for the badge on your shirt and lastly enjoy it! You’ll meet players that you will call your sisters, it’s more than a just a club & coaches – they become your family.”

McMillan agrees: “There will be challenging moments and there will be rewarding moments, but commitment and drive really do pay off. My best advice would be to get stuck in, believe in yourself and just enjoy every minute!”

YOU CAN BUY TIKETS FOR THE SCOTTISHPOWER REGIONAL LEAGUE PLATE FINAL HERE