Organised by Derbyshire County Football Association, the two day event also had an emphasis on the Kick It Out Weeks of Action Campaign. With guest appearances including Zbigniew Wojcik (Bish) from the Eastern European Migrants Advice Committee (EMAC) and a group discussion with Michelle Shooter a female police officer from Derbyshire Police. Goodie bags, Kick It Out posters, badges and certificates, presented by Laura Bassett, England and Leeds Carnegie Ladies F.C Player.
Laura Bassett was keen to support the Football 4 GALS programme: “When I was young there were no girls-only football festivals, so this programme is fantastic and the fact is focuses on respect and fair-play is even better. There are some great opportunities for the girls to join teams and progress their skills in a friendly and supportive environment. I always enjoy visiting grass-root football projects and I’m delighted to provide a signed England shirt for a fair-play award.”
Ella Winfield (12) was one of the 40 girls excited to be on the course as she explains: “The teambuilding exercises were really good and I particularly liked the match at the end – it was fun!”
Naomi Slade-Walker also aged 12 added: “I met lots of new friends, it’s good to get active and the whole thing was great.”
Angie Harper, women’s and Girls Football Development Officer for Derbyshire County Football Association said “it was a fantastic two day event and good to see so many girls attending”.