Under half of Celtic fans have an interest in women’s football, according to their new fan survey.
A majority of 53 per cent said they weren’t interested – leaving 47 per cent saying they were, including most women respondents.
However, of those who said they were interested in women’s football, only 21 per cent go to support Celtic’s women’s team.
More than a quarter of respondents said they would be more likely to attend Celtic’s women’s team’s matches if they were held at a more convenient location – for example, Celtic Park, where the men play.
And a similar number said they would be more likely to attend if matches were on a different day. Scottish Women’s Premier League matches are generally held on a Sunday.
Of those fans who do attend matches, they highlighted some elements that they had particularly enjoyed. These included the family-friendly atmosphere, the fan engagement, the quality of play on the field, and the accessibility and pricing of the tickets.
The report authors – from the University of Strathclyde – make some recommendations on how to improve supporters’ experience when it comes to the women’s team, based on the survey responses. They pick out what they describe as “three key areas: venue and location, bigger crowds to enhance atmosphere, and club support and investment.”
About Celtic and their women’s football set-up
Celtic’s women’s team currently play at New Douglas Park in Hamilton, the home of Clyde. It is roughly ten miles from Celtic Park in Glasgow. They previously played in Airdrie, but the ground there did not meet the requirements for UEFA Women’s Champions League competition.
Their current manager is Elena Sadiku, who led Celtic to their first-ever SWPL title in 2024.
Over the last five years, the club have moved towards a fully professional operation for their women’s team.
But last month Sadiku called on the board to invest further so that Celtic can stay in touch with other clubs in the league.
“I feel right now that we are in a situation where teams are investing strongly and you can see how tight it is every season,” she told reporters.
“Teams are getting better and better and we need to push in the same direction as well.
“It is not about a having fear factor but the fact that other teams are investing really well.”
