Two dads from Flintshire have joined forces to explore the world of women’s football and mental health, to educate themselves and support their daughters.
‘This Girl Can Play’ host Leon Pickford, 35, from Flint came up with the idea alongside friend and co-host Andy Hughes. Both have 11-year-old girls who play for Northop Hall Girls and Flintshire, as well as Leon’s daughter playing for Wrexham and Andy’s for Connah’s Quay Nomads.
They both have huge dreams to play in the WSL one day.
“We as dads soon realised we have no idea how to navigate the amazing world of women’s football. The barriers they face, the stigma and the obstacles that will be put in front of them as girls.
“So who better to speak to and be educated by than these inspirational women who have overcome it and still get to play the game they love.”
The first episode of ‘This Girl Can Play’ focuses on Wrexham AFC Women’s player Lili Jones, who has an incredible story to share.
The hope is that the podcast will be listened to by grandparents, parents, relatives and friends as well as the young aspiring players themselves who may be facing barriers in sport currently.
The episodes will openly discuss the stigma in football and will positively address how they can be overcome by being educated about women in the industry.
Episodes will be available every other Friday and next week the guys will be joined by Burnley FC Women’s star, Aimee Kelly.
