Launching in September 2023, Fulham FC Foundation introduced the EmpowHer programme. EmpowHer aims to inspire and provide female players aged 14 to 18 years with enhanced confidence and self esteem, whilst providing opportunities to increase knowledge and skills across physical and mental wellbeing, in addition to football and career pathways.
Working in collaboration with Fulham FC, EmpowHer aims to provide an additional network for players to enhance their development in a variation of life skills, utilising football as the method for learning. This pathway creates an additional route from our Foundation’s Girls Development Centre and Girls Kicks Programme, allowing players to experience the Women’s U18s environment, through trials and recruitment.
A highlight so far this season was the inspiring opportunity for our EmpowHer participants to engage in a match day take over against Dulwich Hamlet with a special guest appearance from former England captain, Rachael Yankey!
As part of Fulham FC Foundation’s 2022-25 strategy, we want to be able to provide more opportunities for females to feel inspired and engaged in our programmes, whilst creating a sense of belonging and connectivity to both the Foundation and Club.
Recent results from a the EmpowHer survey, highlighted the positive benefits the programme has on the participants, as they rated the programme 9/10 for how inclusive it was.
“It’s really good to be able to train at such a good facility, we’re lucky enough to be inside in the winter. The kits makes us all feel together as we turn up and all look the part. We had a really great opportunity to watch the game and see it up close, and even better that we got to meet Rachael Yankey” – Sarah, EmpowHer Participant.
“With the growth of women’s football, this is the time to ensure there is an increased importance in providing equal opportunities and resources to female players. At Fulham FC Foundation, we are dedicated to ensuring the development of future talent and participation. EmpowHer ensures a connected pathway between our youth programmes and the U18s set up at the club. The access of the Fulham FC Training Ground ensures our players have the best facilities available for their weekly sessions as well as being provided with kit means an increased sense of belonging.” - Niamh Barnett, Female Football Development Officer, Fulham FC Foundation
EmpowHer will be running an open session on Wednesday 7th February from 7.30-9pm at Fulham FC Training Ground, Motspur Park, New Malden, KT3 6PT, for age groups Under-15 to Under-18 (school years 10 to Sixth Form) for any prospective players to experience a training session and speak to the coaches to find out more about what the programme has to offer.
For full details of the session, and to book your place, click below!
