CARRIE HAS DUNN WELL WITH BOOK!
ENGLAND’S heroic displays in last year’s World Cup in Canada gave women’s football a massive boost.
The performances of the likes of skipper Steph Houghton, Lucy Bronze and Fran Kirby caught the public imagination and, ultimately, the Lionesses returned home with hardwon bronze medals.
The success of Mark Sampson’s troops may not have come as much of a surprise to those who have followed women’s football closely over the years, but to newcomers to the women’s game in this country it was an eyeopener.
But one of the keys is how you try to build on that raised profile, that extra interest. In her new book, The
Roar of the Lionesses, freelance sports journalist and author Carrie Dunn takes a wider look at the sport in England – and the challenges players and clubs face.
One of the best things about this book is that it doesn’t just feature the big-name stars or the most powerful clubs in the land, although there is sufficient coverage of them.
It also takes a look at clubs lower down the ladder, whether that be in Women’s Super League Two or the Women’s Premier League. There are interviews with chairmen, general managers, administrators and players about what it’s really like in women’s football now.
There are different snap shots of clubs at different levels. While some clubs and players are fully professional, others lower down are still playing just for the love of the game.
The book also shines a light on some of the dangers facing women’s football. Over the last few years, the professional game has taken off and there is more money involved.
Whereas in the past there was no need for agents, suddenly they have rushed in and at times given clubs headaches with demands for their players, who naturally, as professionals, want to be well rewarded.
Another issue that comes up in the book is the scheduling of matches. In the Women’s Super League, there have been big gaps between matches this season and that means clubs have complained of a difficulty in maintaining momentum.
A further drawback to that is that supporters don’t get into a routine of going to watch their team. There isn’t that guaranteed home game every couple of weeks and it makes it harder for clubs to widen their fanbase.
What does come across in the book is that young girls do now have role models to look up to and that there is now a chance for them to make a career from football.
Carrie Dunn captures the enthusiasm and love for football across the country. There may be problems along the way and hurdles to overcome, but the overall picture is bright.
The Roar of the Lionesses – Women’s Football in England, by Carrie Dunn, published by Pitch Publishing, price £9.99