Alice de Koster-Kitto 1/10/24
Photo by Kieran Chea for Impetus
Can women’s football continue to grow while keeping what makes it special? Alice de Koster-Kitto analysed the results of a fan survey to look into a possible future.
In a world that is often uncertain and unkind to women and minority groups, having a space dedicated to uplifting is crucial, yet rare. Women’s football and the surrounding communities have provided a genuine sanctuary, both on and off the pitch, and these safe spaces are only expanding as the game grows. But how can we, as fans, sustain such growth while maintaining the safe space that has been created?
The success of UEFA Women’s Euros 2022, and FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, saw unprecedented growth in the women’s game, both on and off the pitch. The 2022/23 Women’s Super League season saw a 168% increase from the previous 2021/22 season, after the Euros, and an even further increase of 30% during the 2023/24 Season. Although the WSL has seen arguably the most notable rise over the past few years, the effects can be felt worldwide, with the Liberty Women’s A-League concluding its 2023/24 season with a total attendance of 284,551 as of 15 April 2024, setting the record for the highest attendance of any women’s sport in Australian history.
Misogyny has long plagued football, and the safe spaces that have been established in the women’s game are not accidental, but a direct response to the long history of exclusion in the sport. A recent study* by Kick It Out showed that 52% of women surveyed, experience sexism at a football match, with 85% of the 1052 not reporting the incidents, out of fear of not being believed or taken seriously. The abuse varies from being questioned on their knowledge of the game, to being subject to physical violence, and sexual assault or harassment.
Women’s football is quite the opposite experience. With inclusivity at its core, it challenges the idea that women should compromise parts of their identity to participate in traditional sporting culture. The women’s game has faced its fair share of criticism, for the softened, often coined ‘family friendly’ atmosphere, that some argue undermines the rivalries that football is built on. While fans may have differing opinions, it cannot be denied that the impact goes beyond game day.
This perception can diminish the game’s impact, and can reinforce stereotypes that women’s football is not ‘real’ football, and should not be taken as seriously.
While rivalry is a crucial part of sporting culture, it does not need to equal abuse and aggression. The success of recent tournaments has made it clear that the rejection of traditional masculine sporting fandom is only growing the game further, and we should work to maintain this sense of safety instead of trying to emulate the men’s game.
Women’s football is breaking down the barriers between fans and players in ways that have yet to be seen in the men’s game. While male footballers are often revered as ‘god-like’ figures, female players are viewed as relatable role models. The unique authenticity and transparency mean young girls can see themselves in the players and envision a future where they could achieve the same thing. One fan recounted her experiences attending a World Cup match, saying
“(I) Felt like I belong. When I watch men’s football I don’t feel like I see myself. But with women, I can see myself with the player and get inspired.”
Whether they aspire to be professional athletes or not, seeing women excel in a traditionally male-dominated space is incredibly empowering for all women, no matter their age or background. The rising visibility of female athletes offers a unique kind of role model—one who is celebrated for strength and skill rather than appearance. Little girls can aspire to be the strongest, or the fastest, rather than the prettiest or the most popular, something that has historically been lacking in mainstream female representation.
“The community is such a large space for women to just be and I think that’s why it’s so important”
This accessibility, however, can have its downsides. The transparency of players has been known to create a sense of entitlement among fans, and boundaries are often blurred. As the game continues to grow, it is becoming increasingly difficult to navigate this, while maintaining the culture that makes the game so special.
Ahead of the 24/25 WSL Season, Chelsea FC has implemented new policies to sustain healthy fan-player boundaries. The Super League champions will no longer allow players to stop and take photos with fans after matches, claiming that it is no longer ‘safe or sustainable’, due to increased crowd numbers.
The club has stated that last season saw some unsafe and awkward situations arise, including crowding issues at the front of the stadium. Chelsea plan on organising more structured fan events, in order to maintain the special connection they have established with their fans. While these provisions are ultimately what is best for players and fans, they pose the risk of alienation. This rule is a pioneering one, only time will tell how effective or detrimental it is.
Is it possible to sustain the safe spaces and unique culture of empowerment, whilst closing the gaps between the men’s and women’s game?
Or will attempting to bring the women’s game “up” to the same place as the men, ultimately lead to the downfall of what many have found to be a safe haven?
While it may not be perfect, the growth of women’s football and the effervescent community surrounding it, have created meaningful change for women and girls across the globe. When asked about their favourite part about being a women’s football fan, one fan captured it beautifully: “Female Joy”.
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