Girls’ football boomed in Arbroath after Ellie made growth her goal

The Arbroath Community Sports Club Girls is a family triumph.

Ellie Cook and her clan have built up a growing girls’ football empire that continues to go from strength to strength.

Former Forfar Farmington and Dryburgh Athletic star Ellie recruited her mum, dad, uncle and auntie to create a Tayside team they hope will now be a training ground for elite players of tomorrow.

Ellie – who began Arbroath Community Sports Club Girls – said: “We started off with a handful of girls and it has just grown and grown.

“I began playing when I was about five and had to play with the boys. I started a girls team eight years ago as there was nothing like that for us at the time.

“It was difficult at the start as the women and girls’ game wasn’t really promoted so it was hard to get girls to come along.

“Now it has just blown up. It was hard at first with no provision for girls but things are improving and it’s great to see so many getting involved.

“It has been a real family effort at Arbroath Community Sports Club Girls. My mum Karen, dad Stewart, uncle Steven Herron and auntie Sally have all helped to get the team going.

“It is a very close-knit club and a real labour of love.”

Our survey of players, fans and officials showed nearly 70% had experienced or witnessed discriminatory behaviour.

Sexist abuse and harassment was found to be the biggest issue. Of the participants, 68% have suffered hate, in person and online.

Coach and part-time bar worker Ellie, 20, said: “I have been lucky to have never experienced sexism or abuse at football but I know of people who have.

“It is just unacceptable. You don’t get people making comments about men’s physique, shape or their skill level so why should women and girls have to put up with it?

“There has to be zero tolerance. Men and women, girls and boys need to call it out when they see it.

“I don’t know if maybe some men feel threatened about the rise of the women’s sport. Maybe one day there won’t be men’s and women’s football.

“It will all just be classed as football.”

Ellie’s aunt, Sally Herron, 46, the club’s treasurer, said the club once had just eight players but now they can boast more than 100 footballers.

She added: “It is amazing to see how big the game has got for girls and women.

“Ellie has done so well. I just think it is amazing to see all the girls come out, play and have a great time.

“We get lots of support from the families and the wider community.

“My message would be – ignore any negativity, take the right steps to address any sexist attitudes and get out and just get involved.”

Arbroath Community Sports Club recently joined the Arbroath Player Pathway, a scheme to develop young footballing talent.

It is a partnership between local clubs and the Arbroath FC Community Trust to help football in the town grow and provide opportunities for all players who wish to play the game.

Ellie Cook’s club now has more than 100 footballers.