GIRLS and women across Essex have more opportunities than ever to get involved in grassroots football, thanks to a growing number of inclusive fun, and competitive initiatives supported by the Essex County FA.
With more than 9,300 registered female players, and a 41% increase in girls’ teams since 2023, Essex is experiencing a significant surge in female football participation. From five-year-olds just discovering the game, to women in their 70s taking part in Walking Football, the county offers pathways to suit every age and ability.
A Welcoming Start: Wildcats and Squad Girls
For girls aged 5-11, The FA’s Wildcats programme provides a perfect introduction. These non-competitive, weekly sessions, run by FA-qualified coaches and volunteers, are designed to be fun, inclusive and focused on building confidence as much as skills. With over 50 Wildcats centres across Essex, there’s likely one nearby for any budding young footballer.
Girls aged 12-14 can progress to Squad Girls, which builds on the fun and inclusive environment of Wildcats. These sessions allow young teens to help shape their own training experience, while staying active and building friendships.
Just Play: Football on Your Terms
For women who want a casual kickabout without the pressure of leagues or training commitments, The FA’s Just Play programme is ideal. Sessions run across the county, and are open to women of all fitness levels and backgrounds. Whether you’re returning to football, trying it for the first time, or simply looking for a sociable hour of exercise, Just Play offers a flexible option.
Competitive and Club Football: From Youth to Open-Age
Grassroots clubs are thriving in Essex, with 624 female teams and nearly 400 youth girls’ teams participating locally. These clubs provide structured environments with trained coaches, and the support of England Football Accreditation.
Young players can transition from mini-soccer (ages 7-10, in 5v5 or 7v7 formats) through to full eleven-a-side football by age 18. By Under 12s, girls can join competitive leagues, and there are also opportunities to represent schools, districts and counties.
For players aged 16 and over, the Essex County Women’s League offer regular competitive matches, with pathways into regional and national tiers, including the Women’s Championship and even the Women’s Super League (WSL) for those who rise to the top.
Talent Development: From Local Roots to Lionesses
The FA’s ‘Discover My Talent’ and Emerging Talent Centres (ETCs) support promising players aged 8-16 by identifying and nurturing potential Lionesses. Essex is home to ETCs like the one at Colchester United FC, which provides structured development programmes without disrupting grassroots club commitments.
Specialised initiatives like the Future Lioness Goalkeeping Centre give talented female goalkeepers weekly professional training while continuing to play with their local teams.
Adult Football for All Ages
For those looking to stay involved, or returning to the game later in life, Walking Football offers an excellent solution. With twelve women’s Walking Football teams (and rising), Essex hosts matches for players aged 40 to over 70 in a slower-paced, low-contact format, encouraging fitness and fun.
Coaching, Refereeing and Community
The Essex County FA Female Football Community is working to connect and support women interested in coaching, officiating and leadership roles. This growing network provides mentorship, development opportunities and a space to share best practices – regardless of experience level.
With over 150 female referees registered, and more joining each season, Essex continues to push for better representation on and off the pitch.
Get Involved!
With continued investment, growing participation and a welcoming atmosphere, Essex is proving that the future of female football is bright! Whether you’re a parent looking for a team for your daughter, a woman wanting to give football a try, or a player aiming for elite levels, there’s a place for you in Essex football.
To find your local opportunity, visit www.essexfa.com or use England Football’s ‘Find Football’ tool, where you can also download the new ‘Essex County FA Guide to Female Grassroots Football 2025’. Have a story to share about your football journey? Get in touch with us via our website or social media and help inspire the next generation of Essex players.
