Kick 2 Connect continued its programme of inclusive social football events with a special community football day at the University of Ulster, Magee campus in Derry on Sunday 20 September.
The women’s social football initiative, supported by the Irish Football Association and Derry City & Strabane District Council, brought nine teams together for a full day of football, friendship and fun.
Following the success of the initiative’s first Social Football Festival at Solitude Stadium earlier this year, Kick 2 Connect is continuing to create welcoming and pressure-free opportunities for women aged 16 and over to enjoy the game.
Nine teams took part in the Derry event, with each team playing eight ten-minute matches across four pitches throughout the day.
The programme was about more than just the football, with participants also taking part in a group warm-up, wellbeing activities and guidance around performance and recovery.
A highlight of the afternoon was a walking football exhibition featuring Hillsborough Women’s Walking Football Club and Belfast Strollers.
Both teams are newly formed, providing another example of the opportunities being created for women to get involved in football in a fun, social and supportive environment.
For Kick 2 Connect Chairperson Roisin Beasley, the event reflected exactly what the initiative is all about.
“What an incredible day of football, fun and laughter,” said Roisin.
“Women coming together, making connections, breaking down barriers and showing that football really is a game for everyone. Thank you to everyone who made it happen.”
Irish FA Women’s Development Manager Lauren Moore also highlighted the importance of initiatives such as Kick 2 Connect in creating opportunities for women to get involved in football.
“Kick 2 Connect is a great example of football being for everyone. Days like this help women find their way into the game and stay in it, and we're proud to support Roisin and the team as the programme keeps growing,” said Lauren.
The day concluded with a presentation and shared food, allowing participants to continue building connections and friendships away from the pitch.
Kick 2 Connect’s next event will take place on 11 October, as the programme continues to provide regular social football opportunities for women across Northern Ireland.
The initiative forms part of the wider drive to increase participation and create more opportunities for women and girls to enjoy football across Northern Ireland.
Read to do it all again?
Kick 2 Connect is a women’s social football programme offering football, fitness and friendship for women aged 16 and over.
The programme welcomes women of all abilities and provides a supportive, inclusive and pressure-free environment where participants can enjoy the game, meet new people and build connections through football.
Kick 2 Connect returns on Sunday 11 October and whether you have a squad or you're an individual looking to play, we welcome all abilities, just register below. For more information, contact kick2connect@outlook.com.
