This season marks the launch of a brand-new women’s football team at Nunnery Wood Football Club, with a clear goal: to create a full pathway from childhood to adulthood.
With support from a Public Health Community Wellbeing grant, the Worcester club has been able to open an under-18 team, helping bridge the gap between youth and adult football and encouraging girls to stay in the sport beyond the age where many typically drop out.
Neil Rayment, manager of the women’s team, said:
“We’re a new open-age team, with players ranging from 16 to 36. We now have a complete pathway from childhood to adulthood. It’s great to see the girls flourish.”
“It’s a social club, but it also provides a release. It’s a great thing for the community as well as the players. It’s good for their mental and physical health and allows them to grow in stamina and confidence.”
Team captain Becky Evans added:
“Being able to continue to play football has been great for my fitness and wellbeing. It’s fantastic to be able to be a mentor and role model for the younger girls too.”
Team sports like football offer significant health benefits for women and girls. Regular participation improves cardiovascular fitness, builds muscle strength and flexibility, and supports healthy weight management. Mentally, football helps reduce stress and anxiety, boosts self-esteem, and strengthens social connections. For teenage girls especially, staying active in sport can be a protective factor against mental health challenges and social isolation.
The team is now actively recruiting and building a squad that players want to join and stay with. Starting at tier 7 of the football pyramid, they hope to climb the ranks and become a sustainable part of the club’s future.
This inspiring project was showcased in our Community Stories 2025 Event, celebrating the incredible work of grant-funded organisations across Worcestershire.
To find out more about our Public Health Community Grants please visit: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/communitygrants
