GIRLS SECTION
INTRODUCTION
Knowle Girls is the section of Knowle FC for junior female players and we’re pleased to be able to provide playing opportunities for 12 teams going into the 24/25 season. These teams range from Under 8s to Under 18s.
We are based at Hampton Road, on grounds bordering the green belt in Knowle but we also play at Arden School, Dorridge School, train on local astro-turf surfaces and sometimes utilise the local parks. We are run by volunteer, FA-qualified coaches. Our coaches have historically been parents of players but we have worked hard to build links with our Knowle Ladies team too, and this season we are proud to have 7 players from the adult team working with our girls teams. Across the section we have 27 coaches, 13 of which are female.
Knowle Girls is much more than a few pitches and some facilities. We are very proud of the consistent coaching model and philosophy we have developed over time. Knowle Girls is run by a group of community volunteers who have a shared vision and common set of values and these are intended to drive a positive contribution to the club, our local community and specifically to the lives of our female players.
Our Philosophy
Knowle Girls exists to encourage female participation in sport.
Our philosophy centres on enjoyment of football; leading to motivation, repeated practice, fitness, and mastery of the game. Our initial objective therefore is to make training and matches with Knowle Girls as enjoyable as possible.
Sporting clubs of all levels and varieties play an important role in our community. They each make significant contributions by providing hubs for different activities; places where people can come together and share in common pursuits.
Knowle Girls provides a specific focus for girls who are interested in, would like to try and ultimately would like to excel at football.
We aim to provide our players with enhanced physical skills, grow their self-esteem and expand their social connections. We aim to have a positive impact on their physical and mental wellbeing, social adjustment and sense of community belonging.
Girls and boys are permitted to play together under FA guidelines (right up to Under 18s) and this could be supported by Knowle Football Club as long as it enables and encourages female participation in football and where it’s in the best interests of all players concerned.
Our Vision
Knowle Girls’ vision is to be recognised locally and by the wider football community as providing the best grassroots opportunities for female, junior players through the consistent application of our philosophy, a passion for player growth and a track record of continuous positive outcomes. We will work with a wide range of people and organisations that will support us in achieving our vision.
Our Charter
We aim to:-
• Provide the best local opportunity for girls interested in football
• Make involvement with Knowle Girls as enjoyable as possible
• Play in age-appropriate leagues and competitions
• Play with style and sportsmanship which we can be proud of
• Follow FA Respect guidelines at all times
• Coach to master the game, as opposed to coach to win at all costs
• Always put the development of our players before results
• Develop players equally in all four FA corners (Technical, Physical, Psychological and Social)
• Provide girls with an opportunity to express themselves and develop their characters
• Encourage our players to respect themselves, other people and property
• Encourage our players to take care of themselves and their teammates
• Encourage our players to take a healthy interest in all sports, not just football
• Encourage our players and players’ parents to take an active role in supporting the wider club and otherwise contribute to our local community
• Develop young players who could one day play for Knowle Ladies
• Maintain a strong and supportive working relationship with Knowle Ladies
• Keep working to improve volunteer training standards and club facilities
• Take a sustainable approach to the development of the Knowle Girls section
Thank you for taking the time to read the above and for supporting us in achieving our vision.
If you’d like to feedback on the above or discuss any of the issues raised, please let me know. Equally, if you’d like to get more involved with the club.
Many thanks,
Jim Dowding
KNOWLE GIRLS SECRETARY
07721300486
james_dowding@hotmail.com