Commenting on the launch, Lord Mayor Alderman Brian Kingston said: “I am delighted to have hosted the NIWFA to launch its 2017 league and cup season, and this event is extra special as it marks the association’s 40th anniversary. 2017 is also a momentous year for women’s sport in Northern Ireland, with the country hosting the UEFA U-19 Women’s European Championship and the Women’s Rugby World Cup. I must commend all the volunteers from the NIWFA, past and present, and the clubs for their support for women’s football over the past 40 years.”
NIWFA Chair Sue O’Neill added: “We are delighted to have been able to launch our 2017 season in such a prestigious venue as Belfast City Hall. Having started out in 1977 with humble beginnings, with 18 teams, we have now grown to having 37 teams competing in five senior leagues and cups and nine teams competing in an under 19 league”.
“2017 is the year of women’s sport in Northern Ireland and we hope that we can continue to inspire future generations of women to take part in football. Women’s football isn’t just kicking a ball, but it crosses divides within our communities, strengthens and empowers women and helps them to become leaders”.
“The NIWFA board and club volunteers are committed to growing women’s football in Northern Ireland and hope that the next 40 years can be even more successful.”
Source – niwfa.org
